Mexico City, UNAM Partner to Build New UTOPÍAS

The Government of Mexico City, through the Ministry of Works and Services (SOBSE), has signed a collaboration agreement with the Universidad Nacional Autónoma de México (UNAM) to manage and oversee executive projects for the construction of Units of Transformation and Organization for Inclusion and Social Harmony, known as UTOPÍAS. 

“UTOPÍAS aim to end social inequalities, which is why we are focusing on historically underserved neighborhoods and communities,” says Raúl Basulto, Head, SOBSE.

UTOPÍAS are sociocultural, sports, educational, and recreational facilities that aim to transform public spaces and promote social inclusion across various boroughs of the capital, led by Mexico City’s Mayor, Clara Brugada. This ambitious initiative seeks to reduce social inequalities by creating high-quality spaces dedicated to culture, recreation, care, sports, and overall well-being.

The partnership with UNAM involves an investment of MX$10.67 million (US$525,009) from SOBSE, distributed in three payments. The university, through its Faculty of Architecture and with the support of researchers and academics, will manage and review the executive projects. Additionally, it will provide a detailed report on the activities carried out by both UNAM and the contractors overseeing the construction.

This collaboration builds on the successful relationship between the Government of Mexico City and UNAM, which has been in place since 2019. The partnership focuses on education, research, innovation, cultural outreach, and projects of mutual benefit.

The agreement also seeks to involve students and academics in the design and supervision of the new UTOPÍAS. “The UTOPÍAS program is one of the administration’s key projects, which is why we invited the Faculty of Architecture and other disciplines. We believe that, with the help of young people, we can achieve remarkable results in transforming the city,” says Basulto.