An Oasis In The Middle of La Zurza

SANTO DOMINGO. There is a refreshing place in La Zurza that, despite the deplorable conditions in the area, serves as a relaxing place for its visitors. It is a spring located on the banks of the Isabela River near the Capotillo, Cristo Rey and Villas Agrícolas neighborhoods.

The spa has three natural pools, whose waters flow from the depths of the earth, still reaching the surface like a spring of deep blue waters. However, this spring is threatened by contamination in the area, caused by the large amount of solid waste thrown by the residents, as well as social insecurity and the construction of nearby streets and avenues.

This is why the Zurza Environmental Sanitation Foundation (Fundsazurza) initiated the "Isabela Wetlands Rehabilitation Program", whose work seeks to rescue and refurbish this important area.

The program aims to conserve the city's water heritage, guaranteeing the use of spas by the citizens of this area and improving the living conditions of the inhabitants of La Zurza.

Nicolás Mendoza, in charge of planning for the foundation, explained that they have worked hard to remodel the spa and clean up the place. However, he indicated that the lack of economic resources has prevented his final objective: to make the spa a tourist space suitable for family enjoyment: "unfortunately the resource factor has not allowed us to fulfill our purpose of providing the community with a spa. worth visiting and allowing neighbors to recreate, "he said.

Mendoza pointed out that in 2010 Fundsazurza received US $ 5,000 from the Ford Motor Company to work on the recovery of the wetlands and cleaning of the ponds, but that this was not enough because the cost of the remodeling amounts to the US $ 400,000. The remodeling project includes recreational areas, cafeterias, changing rooms, children's games and a multipurpose room for artistic group presentations, as well as a tourist route along the Isabel River to the Mirador Norte Park, with a small port and boats.

Francis Disla, in charge of press and public relations at Fundsazurza, explained that to carry out the project, the institution has sought the collaboration of the Ministry of the Environment, but has not yet received a response. They will also prepare a proposal to request financial assistance from the Inter-American Foundation (FIA), an international entity that has been supporting organizations in the country for 40 years.

Profits

Disla said that the residents of the sector were identified with the project, because its implementation would change the "bad perception" that exists about the area. In addition, it would create jobs, boost the economy and reduce crime.

Sonia Reyes, a resident of La Zurza, explained that, in her opinion, the spa would allow talented young people in the area to develop their singing, dance and theater skills and perform in the multipurpose room before visitors.

"La Zurza would improve its image with this project. It would be seen that here there is not only drugs and crime, but there is also a space for fun," she said.

About La Zurza

The La Zurza sector is located in the northern part of the National District and has a population of approximately 45,000 people, distributed in 1.6 km2 crossed by 6 ravines, one of them the famous Cañada del Diablo.

Another reference of the place is its popular market, from where most of the residents obtain their livelihood, while the rest manage to subsist by collecting iron and fishing.

Fundsazurza

The foundation is made up of 19 organizations and generates more than 110 direct employees, in addition, it implements programs for physical environmental improvement and youth support in the community, as well as projects for the generation of income and solid waste management.

It also offers health care and nutritional support to the elderly and supports a mothers' club, supporting 14 units of initial education for children between three and six years old and promoting culture, sports and ecology. Young entrepreneurs are part of a promotion that works to prevent drugs and violence.

Currently, the foundation is part of the 3Rs entity, whose motto is Reduce, Reuse and Recycle, in addition to being the founder and main supporter of the Dominican Network of Recyclers (Reddore).

Article Source