The environment and community of Rincón, Puerto Rico
is under attack. A categorical failure by the system
to allow for public notification and input is jeopardizing
the precious recourses that are the economic engine
for Rincón.
Over thee years of grassroots efforts in conjunction
with the leadership of President of the Cámara Carlos
Vizcarrondo Irrizary have resulted in the landmark
legislation Ley 2983 -- la "Ley de la Reserva Marina
Tres Palmas de Rincón." This measure was an affirmation
of the Comonwealth's and the municipality of Rincón's
commitment to the environment.
Despite this progress, the Rincón coastline is being
threatened by projects that are being granted variances
to allow the construction of developments that are
not within the character of the community.
It would be a tragedy after such a milestone for
the community to suffer the harm of these projects
which will not only negatively impact Rincón's environment,
but will also limit access to the beach for Rincoeños
while taxing the already overburdened infrastructure
of the municipality.
It is very concerning that there has been such a
widespread and gross failure to allow public input,
comment or notification in these cases. It is even
more concerning to consider how many other projects
have been passed in the same negligent and illegal
manner. While the work at Reina Del Mar has been
put on hold pending the hearing and investigation,
the contractors for the Sandy Beach Apartments are
already altering the coastline and quebrada while
rapidly preparing to begin concrete work in the very
near future. As a result, immediate intervention
is required.
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