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PS 709

Para designar como Reserva Natural Playa La Ocho, los terrenos que colindan al sur con la Avenida Luis Muñoz Rivera y que abarca desde la Punta de El Escambrón, incluyendo el Peñón San Jorge, Playa La Ocho, el litoral norte de Puerta de Tierra hasta llegar a la Peña Pará frente al Fuerte San Cristóbal en el Municipio de San Juan, y todos aquellos terrenos y ecosistemas sumergidos y aguas marinas que se extienden desde la costa hasta nueve (9) millas náuticas mar afuera; ordenar al Departamento de Recursos Naturales y Ambientales realizar la delimitación de todos los terrenos localizados en la zona de interés; y para otros fines.

2025-2028 Session

Bill designates coastal San Juan area as natural reserve, restricting development and marine activities across terrestrial lands and 9 nautical miles of offshore waters to protect ecosystems.

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Bill Summary · PS 709

Legislative bill overview

Bill PS 709 designates a coastal area in San Juan, Puerto Rico as the "Playa La Ocho Natural Reserve," encompassing terrestrial lands from El Escambrón to Fort San Cristóbal and marine ecosystems extending 9 nautical miles offshore. The bill directs the Department of Natural Resources and Environment to formally delimit all lands within this designated zone.

Why is this important

Establishing marine reserves protects critical coastal ecosystems, fisheries, and biodiversity while potentially restricting commercial activities and development. This designation affects property rights, water access, tourism operations, and environmental conservation priorities in one of San Juan's most populated coastal areas.

Potential points of contention

  • Property rights and development restrictions: Private and public landowners in the designated zone may face limitations on construction, commercial use, and economic development of valuable waterfront property
  • Fishing and marine access: The 9-nautical-mile marine jurisdiction could restrict traditional fishing practices, commercial fishing operations, and water-based recreational activities for local communities
  • Economic vs. environmental priorities: Tourism operators, water sports businesses, and real estate interests may oppose reserves that limit exploitation, while environmental advocates support protection of San Juan's remaining natural coastal habitat

Compiled from official sources — confirm details with the bill’s official record.

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