Cuban YouTuber Camila Carballo has highlighted the severe deterioration of the Gerardo Abreu Fontán Workers' Social Club (CSO) and Coney Island in one of her recent videos. "This place is filled with trash. It's a shame, there's not even any sand left. There's so much neglect, it's the truth. I have no words to describe the sadness I feel visiting places like this. It's a dump," the young woman expressed.
Both of these institutions were originally built with private funds in Cuba and are located in the beautiful neighborhood of Miramar, in the Playa municipality of Havana. They were expropriated by the regime, and 60 years later, they stand as a testament to the government's neglect.
The CSO Gerardo Abreu Fontán was initially known as the Military and Naval Circle, created for Armed Forces officers before being disbanded in 1959. The regime seized it and turned it into the Central House of the FAR, eventually handing it over to the unions for the "enjoyment of the people." However, it was mismanaged until it fell into its current state of complete disrepair.
"These locations could generate significant revenue and provide enjoyment for the population. People would come because these Miramar beaches have a tremendous advantage being so close to Havana," the young woman commented.
In 2022, the CSO Abreu Fontán faced harsh criticism from the public due to the high prices of its food offerings. People believed the prices should align with their wages, but the situation has only worsened. There are now almost no leisure offerings available in the area, leaving it virtually empty.
The reasons behind the decay of these recreational facilities are not solely economic but also stem from strategic governmental decisions. By allowing these public spaces to fall into disuse, the regime creates a void in the popular imagination. In a few years, they could use these valuable lands, like those in Miramar, to push initiatives that align with their interests, as has happened numerous times before.
Coney Island was inaugurated in Havana in 1918, inspired by a large amusement park in Brooklyn. It quickly gained fame and recognition, becoming one of the most renowned amusement parks in Latin America. Four years later, the elegant Balneario de la Concha opened, joining Coney Island Park and the Habana Yacht Club as the prime spots for splendor and entertainment in Marianao.
The Cuban government has left these and other recreational facilities in the area in a state of ruin. Regime officials claim the neglect is due to a lack of resources for building maintenance and equipment upkeep. However, the state has made million-dollar investments in nearby areas for facilities aimed at tourism.
Understanding the Decay of Cuban Recreational Facilities
Below are some frequently asked questions concerning the deterioration of the Gerardo Abreu Fontán Workers' Social Club and Coney Island, along with the broader implications for Cuban society and infrastructure.
Why are the Gerardo Abreu Fontán Workers' Social Club and Coney Island in such poor condition?
The poor condition is due to a combination of governmental neglect and strategic decisions. The regime has allowed these public spaces to fall into disuse, which may allow them to repurpose the valuable land in the future for initiatives that align with their interests.
What was the original purpose of the Gerardo Abreu Fontán Workers' Social Club?
Originally, it was known as the Military and Naval Circle, created for Armed Forces officers. It was later seized by the regime and turned into the Central House of the FAR before being handed over to the unions for public enjoyment, eventually falling into disrepair due to mismanagement.