In July 2020, the Mexico City-based architect Fernanda Canales made a pivotal decision. Tasked with participating in a federal initiative that aimed to provide civic facilities to underserved towns in Mexico, Canales had to choose between working on familiar sites near her city or taking on the challenge of constructing structures in Agua Prieta and Naco, two small, impoverished towns along the U.S. border. Despite their high crime rates and troubled histories, Canales felt compelled to tackle the tougher challenge, driven by her extensive academic knowledge and personal passion for designing solutions that address the unique issues faced by border communities. Now, three and a half years later, Canales and her team have completed a series of remarkable buildings that not only address local needs but also foster a sense of community, beauty, and safety. These structures serve as case studies on the complexities of community rehabilitation through architecture.
Introduction
In July 2020, architect Fernanda Canales faced a difficult decision. She was given the opportunity to participate in a federal initiative aimed at providing civic facilities to underserved towns across Mexico. Canales had the option to work on familiar sites near Mexico City or take on the challenge of designing structures in Agua Prieta and Naco, two small, impoverished towns along the U.S. border. Despite the higher risks and tougher conditions, Canales decided to embark on the border project, drawing upon her expertise and passion for border design.
Background
Fernanda Canales’ decision to participate in the federal initiative
Fernanda Canales’ decision to participate in the federal initiative was driven by her desire to take on a challenging project that would have a significant impact on underserved communities. Although she initially hesitated due to the high crime rates and difficult conditions in Agua Prieta and Naco, Canales ultimately chose to embrace the opportunity to make a difference in these border towns.
Agua Prieta and Naco’s challenges and issues
Agua Prieta and Naco are small towns located along the U.S.-Mexico border. These towns have faced numerous challenges, including high crime rates, limited resources, and a lack of civic facilities. Agua Prieta gained notoriety as the site of Joaquín “El Chapo” Guzmán’s first border tunnel used for drug and weapon smuggling, while Naco has a greater number of unpaved roads than paved ones. These conditions have contributed to cartel-related violence, femicide, and a sense of disillusionment among residents.
Canales’ expertise in border design
Fernanda Canales’ expertise in border design made her the ideal candidate for the challenging project in Agua Prieta and Naco. As an architect, Canales had previously taught design solutions focusing on the border at prestigious universities such as Yale and Princeton. Furthermore, she had written extensively on the topic, allowing her to bring a wealth of knowledge and experience to the project.
The Urban Improvement Program
Overview of the Programa de Mejoramiento Urbano (P.M.U.)
The Programa de Mejoramiento Urbano (P.M.U.) is an urban improvement program established in 2018 by Mexico’s Secretariat of Agrarian, Territorial, and Urban Development (SEDATU). It is one of the largest public construction programs in Mexican history. While previous government initiatives had focused on providing housing and basic needs to marginalized towns, the P.M.U. aimed to address the lack of civic spaces in these communities.
Focus on providing civic facilities to underserved towns
A key focus of the P.M.U. is to provide civic facilities to underserved towns across Mexico. These facilities include libraries, parks, streetscapes, sports complexes, and senior centers. By bringing these amenities to towns like Agua Prieta and Naco, the P.M.U. aims to improve the quality of life for residents and create opportunities for community engagement and interaction.
Lack of resources for civic spaces
Prior to the P.M.U., many marginalized towns in Mexico lacked important civic spaces and facilities. Such neighborhoods had been without sports facilities, public markets, plazas, and even basic roads for decades. The lack of resources allocated to these areas had led to a sense of neglect and limited opportunities for community development. The P.M.U. seeks to address this gap by prioritizing the creation of civic spaces accessible to everyone.
Fernanda Canales’ Role
Canales’ decision to take on the challenge of working on the border
Despite the risks and challenges associated with working in Agua Prieta and Naco, Fernanda Canales chose to embrace the opportunity to make a meaningful impact in these border towns. Her decision was driven by a desire to apply her theoretical knowledge and teaching experience in a practical setting. Canales recognized the potential for positive change and was committed to transforming these underserved communities through innovative design and architecture.
Her experience teaching and writing about border design
Fernanda Canales’ experience teaching and writing about border design provided her with unique insights and perspectives. Her academic background allowed her to approach the project with a deep understanding of the social, cultural, and political dynamics at play in border regions. Canales leveraged this expertise to inform her design decisions and ensure that her buildings met the specific needs and challenges of the communities in Agua Prieta and Naco.
The completion of her team’s buildings
Three and a half years later, Canales and her team successfully completed the construction of several buildings in Agua Prieta and Naco. These buildings not only met local needs but also served as catalysts for community revitalization and the strengthening of social ties. Canales’ designs were not just structures; they were symbols of hope, resilience, and inclusivity.
Achievements of the Projects
Meeting local needs and strengthening social ties
The projects led by Fernanda Canales and her team successfully addressed the pressing needs of the communities in Agua Prieta and Naco. Libraries provided access to educational resources, senior centers offered spaces for the elderly to engage in social activities, and sports complexes allowed residents to participate in healthy physical activities. By addressing these needs, Canales and her team fostered a sense of community and solidarity among the residents.
Successful rehabilitation of communities through building
The buildings designed by Canales played a crucial role in the rehabilitation of Agua Prieta and Naco. By providing civic facilities, these structures helped create safe and welcoming spaces for residents. The presence of well-designed buildings fostered pride within the communities and encouraged residents to reclaim and take ownership of their neighborhoods. Canales’ work served as a catalyst for positive change and instilled a sense of possibility for a brighter future.
Case studies in challenges and opportunities
The projects in Agua Prieta and Naco served as case studies in the challenges and opportunities of community rehabilitation through building. Canales and her team faced numerous logistical and construction challenges, including limited resources and the need for innovative solutions. However, these challenges also presented opportunities for creative problem-solving and maximizing the impact of the projects. The experiences gained from these projects will serve as valuable lessons for future endeavors in similar communities.
Community Impact
Improved access to public spaces
One of the most significant impacts of Fernanda Canales’ projects was the improved access to public spaces for the residents of Agua Prieta and Naco. Previously, these underserved towns lacked public parks, libraries, and senior centers. The presence of these civic facilities not only enhanced the quality of life for residents but also provided spaces for community engagement, learning, and recreation.
Promotion of community engagement and interaction
The buildings designed by Canales promoted community engagement and interaction. Libraries became focal points for knowledge sharing and cultural events, while sports complexes encouraged teamwork and healthy competition among residents. The inclusion of community spaces within the designs allowed for informal gatherings and social interactions, strengthening the social fabric of the neighborhoods.
Positive transformation of neighborhoods
Perhaps the most profound impact of Canales’ work was the positive transformation of neighborhoods in Agua Prieta and Naco. The presence of well-designed buildings brought a renewed sense of pride and hope to residents. The transformation of physical spaces was accompanied by a transformation of the community’s mindset, fostering a belief in the potential for a brighter future. Canales’ work demonstrated that thoughtful design and architecture have the power to uplift and empower communities.
Architecture and Design
Canales’ approach to designing the buildings
Fernanda Canales approached the design of the buildings in Agua Prieta and Naco with careful consideration for the unique cultural and architectural influences of the region. Her designs seamlessly incorporated elements of local architectural styles, paying homage to the rich history and traditions of the communities. Canales also prioritized functionality and sustainability in her designs, ensuring that the buildings not only looked beautiful but also served their intended purposes effectively.
Incorporation of local architectural influences
In designing the buildings, Canales drew inspiration from the Sonoran architecture prevalent in the region. The use of arches, vibrant colors, and traditional materials allowed for a seamless integration of the structures within the local context. This approach not only celebrated the cultural heritage of the towns but also ensured that the buildings resonated with the residents, creating a sense of ownership and connection.
Beauty and functionality of the structures
Fernanda Canales’ buildings in Agua Prieta and Naco exemplified a perfect balance of beauty and functionality. The structures, while aesthetically pleasing, were designed to serve the practical needs of the communities. Libraries were filled with natural light and comfortable reading areas, senior centers were equipped with amenities catering to the elderly, and sports complexes offered state-of-the-art facilities for physical activities. Canales’ attention to detail and commitment to creating spaces that were both visually appealing and functional ensured a positive experience for the residents.
Challenges and Opportunities
Overcoming logistical and construction challenges
The construction projects faced by Fernanda Canales and her team were not without logistical and construction challenges. Limited resources, including budgetary constraints and material shortages, posed obstacles that required creative problem-solving. Canales’ team worked closely with local contractors and suppliers to maximize the impact of the available resources, ensuring that the projects were executed to the best of their abilities.
Maximizing limited resources
The limited resources available for the projects required Canales and her team to think innovatively and maximize the impact of every dollar. They prioritized cost-effective design solutions without compromising on quality or functionality. By leveraging the existing strengths of the communities and collaborating with local craftsmen and suppliers, Canales was able to create impactful designs within the constraints of the project.
Potential for future expansion and development
The completion of the initial projects in Agua Prieta and Naco opened up opportunities for future expansion and development. The success of Canales’ designs and the positive community response created a foundation for continued growth. As these border towns transform into thriving communities, there is potential for additional projects and initiatives that will contribute to the long-term development and resilience of the region.
The Future of Mexico’s Border Communities
Potential long-term impact of the urban improvement projects
The urban improvement projects led by Fernanda Canales have the potential for a significant long-term impact on Mexico’s border communities. By providing civic facilities and promoting community engagement, these projects are laying the groundwork for sustainable development and social transformation. The improved access to public spaces and the positive community response set the stage for continued growth and progress in the border region.
Creating models for future community development
The success of Canales’ projects in Agua Prieta and Naco can serve as a model for future community development initiatives in Mexico’s border towns. The approach of prioritizing civic facilities, incorporating local architectural influences, and fostering community engagement can be replicated in other underserved communities. Canales’ work demonstrates that thoughtful design and architecture are powerful tools for community empowerment and revitalization.
Building a stronger and more resilient border region
Ultimately, the urban improvement projects led by Fernanda Canales contribute to building a stronger and more resilient border region in Mexico. By addressing the challenges faced by communities like Agua Prieta and Naco, these projects are creating opportunities for social, economic, and cultural development. As these border towns become more vibrant and inclusive, they have the potential to shape a brighter future for Mexico’s border region as a whole.
Conclusion
Fernanda Canales’ decision to take on the challenge of working on the border has resulted in transformative urban improvement projects in Agua Prieta and Naco. By providing much-needed civic facilities, Canales has enhanced the quality of life for residents and strengthened social ties within these underserved communities. Her approach to design and architecture, incorporating local influences and prioritizing functionality, has created beautiful and impactful structures. The success of these projects serves as a model for future community development and lays the foundation for a stronger and more resilient border region in Mexico.
