A hot property in Panama reforms members of street gangs

Americas Now

A neighborhood in Panama City that was once unsafe and hazardous is now…hip. Attracting the trendy and fashionable and becoming a magnet for investors. Correspondent Harris Whitbeck visits Panama’s Casco Viejo.

Harris checks out how this historic architectural mecca is undergoing a transformation and is transforming some former gang members too.

Panama City’s Casco Viejo is the oldest and one of the most dangerous neighborhoods in the city.  But fashionistas, hipsters and wealthy tourists from around the world are now some of the area’s most visible temporary residents. One of the things that draws them to the Casco Viejo is the American Trade Hotel, a design icon that has quickly become one of the popular properties in town. Among the hotel’s employees are former gang members trying to reintegrate into society. As a result, gang activity has dropped dramatically.

Harris also explains how Casco Viejo is attracting new investors, some former tourists, who are trying to restore the neighborhood to its old glory.

Check out Harris’ report here.

 

A hot property in Panama reforms members of street gangs

A neighborhood in Panama City that was once unsafe and hazardous is now…hip. Attracting the trendy and fashionable and becoming a magnet for investors. Correspondent Harris Whitbeck visits Panama’s Casco Viejo.