A 1970s architectural structure in Downtown San Salvador has been officially transformed into a $1 million Smart Fit fitness center, marking the latest milestone in the ongoing revitalization of the capital’s historic core. Located at Plaza Centro, the new facility adds a fresh wellness dimension to the bustling district while generating 15 direct and 25 indirect jobs, according to the Historic Center Planning Authority (APLAN).
The adaptive reuse project reflects a broader wave of economic momentum in the capital. Since its creation in 2023, APLAN has managed over 1,000 projects representing more than $200 million in cumulative investment, spanning hotels, restaurants, cafes, and entertainment venues. In 2026 alone, the district has celebrated over 10 grand openings, bringing the total to more than 50 new businesses over the past three years.
This opening aligns with a strategic shift toward long-term urban sustainability and heritage preservation. Supported by a recent study conducted alongside the Inter-American Development Bank (BID), local authorities have established a 15-year roadmap to balance private investment, housing, tourism routes, and historical conservation. Officials emphasized that the addition brings “wellness to the dynamics of the area” while breatheing new life into historic properties.
With this new opening, the Historic Center continues to redefine itself as a modern hub for business, leisure, and urban living. By turning decades-old structures into state-of-the-art commercial hubs, San Salvador is reinforcing its appeal to both local residents and international visitors looking to experience the city’s evolving landscape.