Together with IPRU and CAEESU, we were contracted by the Neighborhood Improvement Program (PMB) for a project in the informal settlement area of La Paloma, in Montevideo. The project included the formal urban fabric of the area and six informal settlements. It covered 1680 people in 480 households.

The project consisted of a comprehensive improvement. We carried out urban and territorial studies, pre-investment analyses, and the detailed design of the works. We also conducted a census in the settlements and developed a social development plan for the neighborhood. We managed the required permits with public agencies.

Regarding physical infrastructure, we accomplished:

• Urban planning: We designed new streets and parcel subdivisions for the settlements. We planned 81 new housing units for the families that were to be relocated.
• Sanitation and water supply: We designed internal networks to connect all lots to the sewer system and potable water supply. We also planned the final disposal of effluents.
• Roadways and drainage: We designed roadways for vehicles, pedestrian paths, ditches, and culverts.
• Power supply and lighting: We were responsible for the low-voltage electrical grid and for upgrading and expanding public lighting.
• Landscaping: We designed a project for tree planting along streets and in public spaces.
• Facilities and public spaces: We created several spaces, such as a recreational and sports area with courts, a civic and cultural axis, a CAIF Center, and ten public squares and plazas.

This project provided a comprehensive solution for improving an informal settlement area in Montevideo. The planning of infrastructure and urban reorganization improved the residents’ quality of life.