From the 1960s to the early 1980s , the historic center of Mexico City continued to grow rapidly , becoming crowded . In the 1980s , the Mexico City government decided to promote development in the outer zones of the Federal District . New apartment construction was concentrated in areas such as Iztapalapa and the main inter-city bus station was closed , moving its function to four new stations ( Central Norte , TAPO , Taxqueña and Poniente ) . However , the most important change was the construction of the Central de Abasto in Iztapalapa , taking over La Merced 's role as the main wholesale food market for the city . Although , the area was included the construction of the first Metro line , the disruption of commerce and affordable housing disrupted La Merced 's social structures as many families move out , following jobs and other resources in Iztapalapa . Those that remained behind faced problems with poverty , violent crime and the rise of prostitution . The deterioration was further reinforced due to the destruction caused by the 1985 Mexico City earthquake
1985 Mexico City earthquake
1985 Mexico City earthquake
La Merced (neighborhood)