In addition to ambitious plans for turning Chapala into a vibrant tourist mecca, the municipal government is looking for state funding for infrastructure projects that will enhance the area’s appeal as a haven for retirees.
Specifics have not yet been revealed as to how resources from Jalisco’s Fund for Regional Development (Fondereg) might be applied. However, city hall’s Urban Development has put together statistics related to how a growing population of seniors would boost the local economy.
Figures outlined for the Chapala Development 50-Plus program indicate that nearly 40 million U.S. citizens live off retirement pensions of at least $US1,550 per month. Nine million Canadians and 200,000 Mexicans depend on the same income level. By the government’s calculation, the amount is sufficient to live comfortably in the Chapala area, including expenses for rent, food, transportation, medical services, clothing, recreation and entertainment.
A population of 15,000 retirees in that income bracket would be expected to inject more than 23 million dollars per month into the local economy, generating indirect benefits for 25,000 inhabitants, about half of the municipality’s total population.