Santiago Metropolitan Region

The Metropolitan Region of Santiago comprises six sectors, including the capital city of Chile. Urban development has created high levels of socioeconomic segregation. Only a small segment of Santiago’s population has access to high-quality infrastructure, social services, business locations, and educational institutions, while poorer residents live in underserved and unstable communities. Public policy is working to create more affordable housing, but challenges remain, particularly access, and the location and integration of neighborhoods.

Housing policy is also becoming more sensitive to geographic challenges. Chile has experienced some of the world’s largest earthquakes, and has responded by creating an effective building code and seismic activity monitoring system. However, flooding and landslides disproportionately affect poorer communities, and segregation of resources limits available interventions. The City of Santiago recognizes the need for a sustainable urban development plan, which addresses both community planning and environmental degradation.