Puerto Vallarta, Mexico - While there's been a lot of hoopla regarding the current remodeling of Puerto Vallarta’s Malecón, little attention was paid to the effect it is having on business in the long term.

The $50 million peso project, which focuses on widening pedestrian sidewalks, replacing the concrete surface with natural stone, improved lighting, and repairs to the retaining wall, which was deemed unsafe by the Civil Protection agency in a report issued earlier this year, is scheduled for completion by September 15, 2011.

City Hall and the tourism board are confident the new Malecón will receive the same widespread support the renovations along the Basilio Badillo have received. Officials are enthusiastic, saying that the recent investment in Vallarta’s infrastructure can only be good for the city. They cite the new pier at Los Muertos Beach, the walking bridge joining Gringo Gulch to the River Cuale island and the razing to the ground of the once popular Cinema Luz Maria at the entrance to the downtown area.

The Puerto Vallarta restaurant and bar sector is a resilient one, those along the Malecón have had to endure worse things than a makeover, including Hurricane Kenna. As such, several downtown restaurants are offering special promotions or menus to visitors while the work is being carried out.

La Bodeguita del Medio
Paseo Diaz Ordaz 858-A, north end of the Malecón.
A jumping Cuban style bar-restaurant offering 20% off for locals, plus 2x1 beers, Margaritas, and Mojitos from 11 am-5 pm.

La Dolce Vita
Paseo Diaz Ordaz 674, in the middle of the Malecón.
Specials to be announced. Call (322) 222-3852 for info.

Las Palomas
Paseo Diaz Ordaz 610
10% off food and 2x1 Margaritas at one of Puerto Vallarta's most loved restaurants.

La Posta
Morelos 444, at the southern end of the Malecón.
A new Vallarta restaurant built on the grounds of the original Post Office, offering 20% off food, plus beers for $11 pesos from 12-7 pm. $65 peso pizzas on Mondays.

Mi Querencia
Morelos 426, south end of the Malecón
Breakfast for $39 pesos, 8 am - 12 pm.

While the new Malecón promises new opportunities for businesses located along the length of the boardwalk, you can do your bit to support the Puerto Vallarta restaurant and bar association by visiting the establishments located there NOW!