An artificial beach created in the urban jungle of Mexico City.
Mexico City is a landlocked capital with a considerable distance from Mexico's coastal areas. Therefore, officials have created artificial beaches in order to satisfy the recreational needs of its inhabitants. These beaches are targeted towards the poor and middle class who are not wealthy enough to travel to distant locations. As of July 2010, 10 artificial beaches have been constructed based on factors such as the proximity to public transportation.
Features
Mexico City's beaches are artificially constructed by transporting truckloads of sand into the urban metropolis and depositing it around a swimming pool. These beaches are landscaped with plastic beach chairs, umbrellas and palm trees to create a more tropical atmosphere. Opening these artificial beaches costs approximately $600,000 per year. The pools are inflatable and around 100 feet in diameter, and some beaches also feature smaller kiddie pools and playgrounds.
Function
Mexico City is nearly 200 miles away from the coast, causing problems for people to travel to genuine beaches such as Cancun and Acapulco. Officials created these beaches to serve as a safe outlet for the city's poor population, some of whom make less than $5 a day. These beaches encourage family closeness, which has been correlated to a decrease in crime levels.
Environmental Concerns
Beaches such as Boca de Tomatlán, Mismaloya, Maniagua, and Jos Martí have been listed in the top 10 most contaminated beaches by Greenpeace Mexico. Some officials are concerned with the high levels of fecal bacteria within these beaches, further amplified by the inability of the water to course out freely like it could in the ocean. Some beaches have been built on former trash dumps in the midst of graffiti-stained buildings, salvage yards and car repair businesses.
Poltical Opinions
Critics of Mayor Marcelo Ebrard frown upon the artificial beaches. They are concerned that the city may be missing the opportunity to draw tourists to more established attractions. Some officials worry about the beaches' expenses and overcrowding issues, as residents can visit free of charge.
Origin
Mayor Marcelo Ebrard was inspired by the artificial beach in Seine River, Paris, which allowed nude bathing. The artificial beach program began in the spring of 2007.
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