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Students study at-risk neighborhood

la prensa

The fishing community of Boca la Caja is being squeezed out by nearby developments.

The community of Boca la Caja began as an informal settlement of fishermen 60 years ago, and has since seen the area around it become a central part of Panama's real estate boom.

Many of the neighbors sold out, either by negotiating compensation for the construction of the Corredor Sur, or by selling their properties to private developers.

Now, those who decided to stay may have an opportunity to preserve their neighborhood. Twelve students from Florida State University are working on a project that seeks to rescue the area from developers.

The students spent three weeks meeting with residents and government officials and have produced a plan that would develop the area as a place to highlight Panama's cultural tourism. The idea would be to highlight the racial diversity that makes up the community, said Professor Olmedo Varela, director of the project, noting that residents come from all areas of the country, such as the Darién and Los Santos.

The proposal also involves enhancing the fact that it is a fishing community. The students have proposed building a public market that specializes in seafood.

A key part of the project would include improving the area's infrastructure and housing.

Community leader Eusebio Mesa said that while the area is coveted by developers, he welcomed the initiative of the students because it provides an opportunity to improve the neighborhood.

"For us, it is great to have someone who is interested in our community," he said, noting that some of the residents are second- and third-generation.

Among the biggest challenges facing the development of the community is the high crime rate and the lack of titled properties in the area, obstacles that are also present in many other areas of the country.