Puerto Vallarta, Mexico - According to Jalisco Ministry of Tourism Planning Director, Victor Mijangos, work on the new Los Muertos Pier project, which includes a plaza and street improvements on Calle Francisca Rodriguez, is advancing rapidly and will be completed by mid-December 2012.

The pier itself will consist of a 65 meter walkway with ample railings and lighting for safety, as well as decorative wood finishings, native flora in granite planters, that leads to a roundabout with a gazebo at its center that houses a "sail" sculpture outfitted with multi-colored lights to increase its appeal during the evening hours.

When completed, the new dock will provide easier access to a broader range of vessels, from small water taxis to day cruisers, along with a boom for restaurants, shops and other businesses in the vicinity. As such, the neighborhood's popular Olas Altas Street has also undergone repairs and now boasts underground wiring and new sidewalks embellished with colorful tiles. Additional renovations to Calle Olas Altas are still in the works, and include improved building facades, cleanliness, lighting and surveillance.

The new Los Muertos pier is just one aspect of the recent renovations to Puerto Vallarta's downtown and adjoining areas. Supported by federal, state and municipal funds, the downtown revitalization project includes the newly renovated Malecón, repairs to the Malecón II extension and bridge, expanded sidewalks, the painting of houses, the removal of above-ground telephone and cable wires, the new foot bridge over the Rio Cuale, and the eventual opening of new museums.