Background on Marisol Ávila Córdova and AECO
Marisol Ávila Córdova, the president of the Association of Construction Companies (AECO), has urged the Puebla City Council to take action regarding 1,100 abandoned casonas in the city’s Historic Center. These casonas, some of which have been vacant for up to 15 years, present an opportunity for revitalization and investment attraction in the hotel, commercial, and gastronomy sectors.
AECO, an organization representing construction companies, aims to collaborate with the City Council and the Colegio de Arquitectos del Valle de Puebla (Architects’ College of Puebla Valley) to assist property owners in restoring these historic buildings. The Architects’ College has specialists skilled in restoration, ensuring compliance with the Instituto Nacional de Antropología e Historia (INAH) requirements.
AECO’s Proposal for Casonas Revitalization
Ávila Córdova emphasized that the Historic Center should remain a magnet for investments, and municipal authorities must play a crucial role in creating conditions that attract local, national, and foreign entrepreneurs.
Although AECO cannot directly approach property owners, they urge the City Council to engage with them. The revitalization of these casonas can stimulate economic growth by drawing new businesses to the Historic Center.
Historic Context and Importance
The Historic Center of Puebla is recognized by UNESCO as a World Heritage site, and its preservation enriches the city’s cultural heritage. The current administration faces the challenge of rescuing abandoned properties from neglect, a task that previous administrations failed to prioritize despite the potential for investment attraction, job creation, and economic development.
AECO is eager to contribute to this effort, but their success depends on the City Council’s commitment and willingness to act within their three-year term.
Key Questions and Answers
- What is the issue? There are 1,100 abandoned casonas in Puebla’s Historic Center, which have been vacant for up to 15 years.
- Who is calling for action? Marisol Ávila Córdova, president of AECO, is urging the Puebla City Council to intervene.
- What is the proposed solution? AECO suggests that property owners either restore or sell these casonas to interested entrepreneurs, fostering investment in the hotel, commercial, and gastronomy sectors.
- Why is this important? The Historic Center of Puebla, a UNESCO World Heritage site, benefits from the preservation and revitalization of these historic buildings, promoting economic growth and job creation.
