There's something magical happening in Puerto Vallarta as 2026 unfolds, and residents and visitors alike have plenty of reasons to celebrate. This beloved coastal city is rolling out an impressive array of improvements and investments that promise to make life better for everyone who calls it home or comes to visit.

At the heart of this exciting transformation is Puerto Vallarta's historic budget of 3.1 billion pesos—the largest the city has ever seen. This isn't just numbers on paper; it represents a genuine commitment to building a brighter future. City leaders are channeling these resources into the things that truly matter: safer streets, better roads, beautiful parks, and comprehensive social programs designed to support the community's most vulnerable members.

What makes this investment particularly heartening is its focus on inclusivity. The city isn't just thinking about infrastructure—though road improvements and urban development are certainly part of the plan. Officials are prioritizing programs that ensure every resident can thrive, regardless of their circumstances. It's a holistic approach that recognizes a truly prosperous city is one where everyone benefits.

The city is also making it easier and more rewarding for residents to contribute to this shared vision. Property tax season has kicked off with generous incentives that put money back in people's pockets. Pay in January and receive a 15% discount; February payments earn 10% off. Retirees and seniors enjoy even more substantial savings through a tiered discount program. The enthusiastic response has been inspiring—Dr. Claudio Rafael Vásquez Martínez showed remarkable civic pride by arriving at 1 a.m. on New Year's Day to be among the first contributors. The city hopes to collect around 600 million pesos, all dedicated to projects that will directly benefit the community.

Transportation improvements are also on the horizon, thoughtfully designed with residents' needs in mind. While bus fares are adjusting for the first time since 2018—rising from 10 to 14 pesos—Jalisco Governor Pablo Lemus has ensured no one is left behind. A generous 1.2 billion peso subsidy program means most passengers will actually pay just 11 pesos per trip using the new "Al Estilo Jalisco" card. Students, seniors, and people with disabilities continue to enjoy 50% discounts, bringing their fare to just 7 pesos. The new card system launches in January, with 1.5 million cards planned for distribution by April.

And here's something that will bring smiles to faces young and old: Puerto Vallarta's iconic pirate ship experience is making a triumphant return! After the beloved Marigalante sadly sank, the community wondered if this cherished tradition would continue. The answer arrived in spectacular fashion with the Jolly Roger sailing in from Cancún. Now christened Marigalante II, this vibrant vessel is ready to create new memories and continue delighting tourists with swashbuckling adventures on the beautiful Pacific waters.

Puerto Vallarta isn't just dreaming about a better future—it's actively building one, with investments in infrastructure, support for its people, and preservation of the joyful experiences that make this city so special. As 2026 unfolds, there's every reason to be optimistic about what lies ahead for this thriving coastal community.