Residents Outraged Over Privatization of Historic Street in la Paz

 

The privatization of North Street in the El Esterito neighborhood has sparked an outcry among local residents, who are slamming the move as shady and harmful to their community.

They’re pointing fingers at the La Paz City Council for greenlighting the decision on February 26, 2024, without consulting those most affected—especially since the street serves as a critical escape route during flood emergencies.  

According to the Comité de Defensa Popular Colina Sol, North Street has been a vital part of the neighborhood for over 50 years and was originally laid out in 1861 under Governor Teodoro Riveroll. While it doesn’t show up in digital cadastral maps, locals argue the street is a piece of living history and an essential community asset.  

Critics of the privatization claim it’s all about lining pockets, paving the way for high-impact real estate projects like Torre 38 and Torre A condos. These developments, they say, already guzzle precious water in an area that’s struggling with limited resources. Residents are calling on Mayor Milena Quiroga Romero and the City Council to hit the brakes, revoke the ruling, and protect the community’s rights.  

“This is about protecting what belongs to all of us,” said a spokesperson for the Comité. “This street isn’t just asphalt—it’s a lifeline during emergencies, a symbol of our neighborhood, and part of La Paz’s history. Selling it off for profit is unacceptable.”  

Back in May 2023, the Comité formally asked the City Council to cancel the privatization and officially recognize North Street as part of the city’s heritage. They’re also pushing for a special commission to validate the street’s existence and block future developments that could harm the neighborhood.  

The privatization benefits Alberto Forcada González, who inherited the land from his family. The property was initially federal land but was handed over to Forcada’s ancestor by General Agustín Olachea Avilés during his time as governor.  

“This administrative move blatantly favors private interests over the public good,” the Comité argued. They’ve urged the Cabildo to reconsider and safeguard La Paz’s historical and cultural treasures.  

The fight over North Street is more than just a local dispute—it’s a battle between community needs and real estate greed. For the residents of El Esterito, this is about standing up for their history, their neighborhood, and their future.  

The Comité de Defensa Popular Colina Sol del Barrio El Esterito is formed by:

Coral Lizbeth Díaz Orantes.
Miguel Hernández Rodríguez.
Inés Olivia Kautzman Espinoza.
Patricia Concepción Ramírez Murillo.
Arnoldo Hirales Arce.
Antonio Morales Sánchez.
Concepción Guadalupe Olaves Rodríguez.
Milagros Guadalupe Hirales Romero.