The repair program plans to work on 108 homes in the emblematic and historic Colonial City.
SANTO DOMINGO. - Yesterday, Monday, June 7, the Housing Improvement Program in the Colonial City (Promevi) began, with the announcement of intervention in 38 homes in its initial phase. This project seeks to preserve their historical value, incorporating measures that align with current trends such as environmental conservation, including less invasive construction materials.
The Minister of Tourism, David Collado, accompanied by the European Union Ambassador to the Dominican Republic, Katja Afheldt; the Head of Operations of the Inter-American Development Bank (IDB), Miguel Baruzze; the General Coordinator of the Comprehensive Tourism and Urban Development Program for the Colonial City of Santo Domingo (PIDTUCCSD), Amín Abel Santos; and technicians from the institutions involved in the project, announced the launch of the program, which includes neighborhoods such as San Antón, Santa Bárbara, San Miguel, and San Lázaro.
The home renovation plan encompasses the reconstruction of bathrooms and kitchens, leak repairs, roof and roofing repairs, renovation of electrical and plumbing systems, structural reinforcement (where necessary), replacement of doors and windows (where necessary), and general waterproofing and painting.
"This great initiative, which directly impacts families, clearly demonstrates that we spare no effort for the total and comprehensive recovery of this historic Colonial City," Collado declared.
He explained that the project will impact the local economy and change the lives of those who own these properties . "These homes already have great value, but once renovated, they will be worth even more," Collado stated.
He said that the benefits of tourism development should reach the residents of the Colonial City , and not be limited solely to hotels, bars, or commercial spaces.
The second phase of the program includes work on a second and third group of 32 homes each, and will culminate with a fourth group of 38 homes. A total of 108 homes are projected to be renovated. The work is expected to be completed in the last quarter of 2026.
Investment
The Promevi project has a total investment of $5.2 million . Of that amount, $3.2 million is contributed by the Inter-American Development Bank (IDB), while the remaining $2 million corresponds to a non-reimbursable donation from the European Union .
These improvements seek not only to preserve the heritage value of the buildings, but also to guarantee dignified, safe and sustainable conditions for the families who live in the Colonial City .
They are grateful
José Ángel , representing the beneficiaries of the project, expressed his gratitude for the inclusion and community participation in this urban transformation process.
“Thank you for considering us and for working in coordination with us. I urge the community to be patient, even though the process may seem slow. We must not despair. In that sense, thank you to the minister for promoting this project. On behalf of the entire Colonial City ,” he expressed.
Rosa Ortiz , also a beneficiary of the project, expressed her gratitude to the Government for this initiative that directly impacts low-income families .
