New city offices - San Miguel de Allende

For many Mexican cities, the decentralization of the municipal government offices from the historic center has meant the opening of beautiful "old" colonial spaces for new cultural activities. San Miguel joins the ranks of cities such as Querétaro, Puerto Vallarta, Zacatecas and Torreón that have moved government offices to the city perimeter.

In 2005, the municipal departments of Police, Traffic, Public Works, Urban Development and Civic Protection moved into a partially completed building. Ecology and Tourism, Economic Development and International Relations followed early this year, and two weeks ago the remaining city administration departments left the Presidencia opposite the Jardín.

The impressive two-story, 18th-century building that served San Miguel as City Hall for more than 200 years is now available for alternative purposes. Although its future has yet to be decided, extensive restoration has taken place in the council chambers (the Salon de Cabildos), and local artist has completed a large mural in the room as well. The mayor's office and the council chambers will continue to be used.
"This construction is very important for the city. It is a great success for the current administration. The relocation of government offices will relieve the historic center of substantial traffic and offer better service," said the mayor.

Unlike other government constructions, there has been no date set for the inauguration of the new Presidencia, which is located on the Boulevard de la Conspiración.