The availability of drinking water remains one of Puerto Vallarta’s most pressing challenges, requiring urgent investment in infrastructure, according to Vincent O’Halloran Lepe, Chief of Staff for the City Council. As the city continues to grow and attract more visitors, ensuring a sustainable water supply has become a key priority in the Municipal Urban Development Plan.
“It is essential to invest in infrastructure to guarantee access to this vital resource,” O’Halloran Lepe stated. He pointed out that federal studies have long highlighted the need for greater municipal and water utility investment to strengthen the system.
With Puerto Vallarta’s permanent population of approximately 300,000 residents, the demand for water is already significant. However, during peak seasons like New Year’s Eve and Easter, the city hosts over a million people, further straining resources.
“We continue to expand Vallarta’s tourism capacity, but this must go hand in hand with improved services for both residents and visitors,” he emphasized.
To address the issue, funds have been approved for the Vallarta Drinking Water, Drainage, and Sewerage System (Seapal). The budget will be allocated to:
- Drilling new extraction wells
- Maintaining existing infrastructure
- Regulating real estate developments to prevent excessive strain on resources
O’Halloran Lepe also highlighted ongoing discussions within the Urban Development sector to ensure the city’s growth aligns with water sustainability efforts.
“A financial injection has been approved so Seapal can carry out necessary works. At the same time, we are working closely with urban planners to balance the city’s expansion with responsible water management,” he explained.
As Puerto Vallarta continues to develop, authorities stress that long-term planning and coordinated efforts will be crucial to maintaining a stable and sufficient water supply.