Amid the push by the federal and state governments for major infrastructure and connectivity projects, the mayor of San Miguel de Allende, Mauricio Trejo, called for a careful analysis of the potential impacts of the planned intercity train and new airport on the region.
Trejo noted that these major projects, promoted as part of President Claudia Sheinbaum’s government and supported by Governor Lidia García, have not yet been duly confirmed.
“They are in the planning stages, but if they materialize, they must be considered within a parallel strategy that considers the risks and benefits for the city,” he explained.
“We have joined their government’s priorities in matters of tourism, development, and infrastructure, but if it is confirmed that the intercity train will pass through San Miguel, we must analyze it thoroughly, especially regarding security,” he warned.
The mayor expressed concern about the potential social and security impacts the project could have, particularly due to the increased flow of migrants in transit areas.
“We have to be very careful to ensure that a major project doesn’t increase the presence of undocumented immigrants. From a human perspective, I understand them, but as mayor, I must ensure the safety of the municipality,” he said.
Trejo emphasized that he is not opposed to development, but rather to any project that alters the essence that has made San Miguel de Allende a world leader in conservation and cultural tourism.
“San Miguel develops through conservation, not modernization. We cannot repeat the case of Tulum, which lost its identity due to overexploitation of tourism and excessive infrastructure,” he commented.
Regarding the airport, he explained that for now, only federal and state approval is required to begin preliminary studies.
“There are two possible locations: one near the community of La Venta, between Dolores Hidalgo and San Miguel, and another behind the Industrial Park; however, nothing is concrete, nor have the mayors been convened to define details,” he clarified.
The mayor insisted that any progress must be made with transparency and citizen participation. “At least I will remain true to my word: San Miguel de Allende must grow with balance, prioritizing the conservation of its surroundings,” he concluded.
Source: oem
