Following in the footsteps of towns like Key West, Florida and San Pedro, Belize, Tulum has launched a proposal to introduce electric or hybrid golf carts as an eco-friendly public transportation option. This move reflects the town’s response to rapid population and tourism growth. Over recent years, Tulum has experienced an explosive rise in both residency and tourism, with its go permanent population now nearing 50,000 residents, up from just around 30,000 a decade ago. Tourism has also surged, with over two million visitors flocking to the area each year, drawn by its pristine beaches, ancient Mayan ruins, and increasingly diverse attractions.
Real estate development has paralleled this growth, with luxury resorts, residential complexes, and eco-conscious developments continually springing up to meet demand. This influx has also led to a nearly 8% annual increase in real estate investment over recent years, making Tulum one of Mexico's fastest-growing real estate markets. The city is increasingly appealing to international investors and digital nomads, adding pressure on its infrastructure and intensifying the need for sustainable transportation solutions.
The golf cart initiative, which recently received approval from the Quintana Roo Mobility Institute (Imoveqroo), includes plans for 400 electric carts that will serve as part of the public transportation system. Some of these will be available for public rental, allowing residents and tourists to navigate the town without relying solely on traditional taxis. This setup offers an accessible, low-emission alternative to gas-powered vehicles, fitting Tulum’s eco-conscious image while easing congestion in high-traffic areas.
However, the absence of an explicit role for Tulum’s established taxi syndicate in this plan could potentially lead to tension. Taxi syndicates have a strong influence in the region and have historically resisted competition, as seen during past protests against ride-sharing services. If they feel excluded, they may push back against the golf cart initiative, which they may view as a direct threat to their livelihood.
To ease the transition and foster collaboration, local authorities could consider involving the taxi syndicate by offering them opportunities to manage or operate some of the new golf cart concessions. This approach could honor both Tulum’s commitment to sustainable transport and the syndicate’s economic role in the community, creating a more harmonious balance as Tulum evolves.
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