Territorial diagnosis of the Dominican Republic

The research hypothesis guiding this work is based on the premise that the territorial and urban diagnosis of the Southern, Northern, and Eastern regions of the Dominican Republic makes it possible to identify imbalances in urban planning and to understand the differentiated dynamics between primary and secondary cities. This analysis facilitates the interpretation of growth patterns, infrastructure distribution, and opportunities for sustainable regional development.

The collected data show that each region presents particularities in its territorial structure: in the South, a marked population dispersion and deficiencies in basic infrastructure; in the North, concentration in urban hubs with greater economic dynamism; and in the East, growth linked to tourism that impacts territorial configuration. Likewise, the contrast between primary and secondary cities reveals inequalities in access to services, urban planning, and integration with their regional context.

The most relevant findings highlight the need to strengthen regional and urban planning through management instruments that integrate environmental, economic, and social factors. These results can be interpreted as evidence of the urgency of a balanced approach to territorial development that not only enhances primary cities but also consolidates the strategic role of secondary cities within the national urban network.

The information was collected through regional surveys, direct observation, cartographic analysis, document review, and field studies conducted as part of the course Urban Design II (ARQ-804). The data can be used as inputs for future research in urbanism and territorial planning, as well as for the formulation of regional planning proposals that address the current challenges of urban development in the country.