Residential mobility and redensifi cation policy: the central area of Mexico City

Abstract

Latin American metropoli reveal an increasing interest in urban policies of redensifi cation of central area which have suff ered population loss over several decades. However, prior implementing measures to retain existing residents and attract new ones, it is necessary not to be restricted to mere evidence of a reduction of the number of residents: a more profound diagnosis of the population loss process is required. Within this diagnosis, it is necessary to analyze migratory patterns to and from the centre, with the aim of revealing, among other variables, the profi les of the inhabitants who leave the centre, and where they move. It is only from these variables that it is possible to design adequate urban policies. Also, as the Mexico City case illustrates, it is very important to develop global urban strategies for the whole of the metropolis.

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