Puerto Plata seeks greater tourism support to upgrade historic center

Puerto Plata.- Former Deputy Tourism Minister Julio Almonte has urged the Ministry of Tourism (Mitur) to increase its investment in Puerto Plata, calling for improvements to the city’s historic center and boardwalk to strengthen its tourism appeal.

Almonte said the areas need infrastructure upgrades, better sanitation, lighting, and security to provide a safer and more enjoyable experience for residents and visitors.

His proposals include restoring Victorian-style houses, improving drainage and sanitation systems, eliminating unpleasant odors, and reorganizing public spaces. He also called for stronger nighttime lighting and 24-hour surveillance cameras in the historic center and along the boardwalk.

The former official argued that the improvements require substantial funding beyond the municipality’s financial capacity, making continued support from the Ministry of Tourism essential to preserving Puerto Plata’s architectural heritage and improving its urban image.

Almonte also pointed to cruise passenger figures in Santo Domingo’s Colonial City to highlight the need for greater attention and investment in Puerto Plata’s tourism infrastructure.