La Puya, one of the oldest neighborhoods in Arroyo Hondo, has undergone a remarkable transformation, evolving from a place once feared for its high crime rates to a community now celebrated for its tranquility. Located near the National Zoological Park and the Cristo Rey neighborhood, La Puya stands as a testament to the power of community organization and resident determination in fostering peaceful coexistence. Residents report a staggering 75% to 95% reduction in crime, a stark contrast to the violent clashes and drug-related gang wars that plagued the area in 2022. Basilio Lorenzo, president of the La Puya Neighborhood Association, recalled the neighborhood’s dark past, describing it as ‘unbearable’ and likening the crime surge to a ‘pandemic.’ Today, however, the community enjoys a newfound sense of safety, with residents proudly declaring, ‘There’s no stealing here.’ Despite these improvements, challenges remain, including persistent garbage issues in areas like La Gallera and El Aguacate, and limited access to drinking water. A project in collaboration with the Santo Domingo Water and Sewer Corporation (CAASD) is underway to address the water shortage. Additionally, the community seeks greater support for sports activities, particularly for the local court currently under repair. The government has also noted a nationwide decline in crime, with Interior and Police Minister Faride Raful highlighting a significant drop in homicide rates and theft reports. La Puya, established in the 1960s as a low-income settlement, has long been a ‘popular enclave’ within a privileged sector. Despite its history of poverty and disorganized growth, the neighborhood has reinvented itself through the efforts of its residents, neighborhood associations, and sports clubs, proving that even the most troubled communities can achieve lasting change.
The “miracle” of La Puya de Arroyo Hondo: the neighborhood where even criminals collaborate
