A. M. 
The Legislative Assembly approved on tuesday, during its 83rd plenary session, the authorization for the Executive Branch to sign a US$170 million loan agreement with the Inter-American Development Bank (IDB). The funds will allow for the implementation of the Comprehensive Urban Regeneration and Sustainable Revitalization Program for Municipal Markets in the districts of Santa Tecla and La Libertad, with the goal of improving access to public services and modernizing the urban environment.
The project will be carried out by the Dirección de Obras Municipales (DOM)and will directly benefit more than 2,000 vendors who depend on these markets as their primary source of income. The initiative also seeks to transform these spaces into safer, more accessible, and more functional environments for visitors and residents.
The program encompasses three main areas of intervention. The first involves the construction and renovation of municipal markets, adhering to universal accessibility and resilience standards. This includes complementary services such as childcare centers, lactation rooms, nursing areas, and reclaimed public spaces. Improvements will also be made to nearby streets, parks, and plazas; lighting will be modernized; and the stormwater drainage system will be optimized.
As part of environmental management, a pilot composting and biogas project will be implemented, focused on utilizing organic waste. Wastewater treatment plants will also be installed, improving sanitation and the quality of life for the population.
The second component of the program focuses on strengthening micro and small businesses through technical and business training in financial management, marketing, and administration. The use of digital payment methods will also be promoted, and access to equipment such as refrigerators and display cases will be facilitated.
The third component aims to strengthen the institutional capacities of the participating municipalities by creating operating manuals, market management protocols, and strengthening urban planning and territorial development offices. It also includes the contracting of consulting and program evaluation services.
Congresswoman Sharon Salazar of the Nuevas Ideas party emphasized that markets are an economic pillar for hundreds of families and that this investment will allow them to be transformed into dignified and modern spaces. Legislator Walter Alemán noted that in addition to the commercial and social benefits, the projects will boost the local economy and generate jobs during their construction and operation.
With this funding, the government seeks to promote a sustainable urban transformation that will benefit the local economy, improve quality of life, and create more organized and attractive spaces for residents and visitors.
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