By María T. Collado Sierra
On October 3, 2023, the National Museum of Puerto Rican Arts and Culture hosted a community meeting that addressed the controversy surrounding the construction of the archives building. A plan was unveiled to replace the construction with a new facility situated along the iconic Paseo Boricua corridor—a powerful symbol of resilience and unity.
However, amid these positive developments, we need to address a statement made during the meeting regarding the placement of the archives building on Division Street. One participant suggested that Division Street lacks investment and development, a notion that is both inaccurate and offensive to the community that has existed there for decades.
Division Street, home to Paseo Boricua, has been a thriving hub of Puerto Rican culture and community for over 50 years. It is a street lined with businesses that have not only survived but thrived, even though the challenging times brought about by the pandemic. These businesses are owned and operated by members of the community who have poured their efforts into building a resilient local economy.
Investment and development in Division Street have always meant more than the influx of corporate chains or overpriced yoga studios. It means affordable housing, local businesses owned by community members, and a strong and self-sustaining economy. These pillars have been the foundation of Division Street’s success for decades.
Before suggesting development ideas, newcomers to the neighbor- hood need to learn to distinguish between gentrification and authentic development. Gentrification is the process by which wealthier individuals or businesses move into a neighborhood, leading to increased property values, rent, and a shift in the character of the area. On the other hand, genuine development involves sustainable initiatives that enhance the community’s well-being without displacing long-term residents or erasing their cultural identity.
We cannot accept the notion that Division Street lacks development and investment, especially when we have the 64-unit affordable housing new construction named after Dr. Pedro Albizu Campos—a testament to genuine development.
