For years, residents of San Mateo have dreamed of better roads, improved drainage, reliable water service, and safer access to neighboring communities. That vision is now becoming a reality as the long-awaited San Mateo Improvement Project officially moves from the planning stage into implementation.
The San Pedro Town Council recently announced that work is set to begin on the first phase of the ambitious community upgrade, describing it as a project that will transform both the neighborhood and the lives of the people who call it home.
The initial phase will focus on expanding San Mateo’s network of paved streets by connecting the main roadways throughout the community. The project will also include the installation of proper drainage systems and sidewalks along existing and newly paved streets, helping improve mobility while reducing flooding during the rainy season.
Another major component of the project is the expansion of Belize Water Services (BWS) into sections of San Mateo that currently do not have access to the public water system. In addition, a new pedestrian bridge will be constructed to connect the San Mateo and San Juan neighborhoods, making commuting between the two communities safer and more convenient.
According to the Town Council, this milestone has been years in the making. Planning began in 2023 when technical teams from the Inter-American Development Bank (IDB) visited San Pedro to assess the community’s infrastructure needs. After extensive studies, engineering work, and consultations with residents, the project is now entering the construction phase. Residents are being asked to remain patient as temporary inconveniences from road works and construction activities are expected over the coming months.
San Mateo Area Due for Upgrades
The San Mateo project forms part of Belize’s Sustainable and Inclusive Urban Development Program (BL-L1046), a US$12.5 million initiative financed by the Inter-American Development Bank. The program supports urban development projects in San Pedro Town, Orange Walk Town, and Corozal Town, with the goal of improving public infrastructure, encouraging local economic growth, and creating more inclusive communities, particularly for vulnerable populations, women, and migrant families.
Earlier community consultations highlighted additional long-term improvements planned for San Mateo, including upgraded public spaces, improved lighting, enhanced accessibility, and infrastructure designed to strengthen resilience against flooding while improving overall quality of life for residents.
For decades, San Mateo has represented one of the fastest-growing residential areas on Ambergris Caye, but growth has often outpaced infrastructure. Many streets remained unpaved, drainage was limited, and access to basic services has been an ongoing challenge. This project represents one of the largest public infrastructure investments ever made in the neighborhood and is expected to significantly improve daily life for hundreds of families.
As construction begins, San Pedro residents are hopeful that the improvements will not only modernize San Mateo but also create a stronger, safer, and more connected community for generations to come.
