Sustainable rapid urban expansion : The case of Xalapa, Mexico

The paper focuses on the rapid urban expansion of Xalapa, Mexico, capital of the State of Veracruz. It analyses how a more sustainable pattern of development can be achieved by use of an open-space network integrated into the urban structure. The trade-off between the maintenance of a good quality urban environment and continued economic development is central to the analysis. This leads to the suggestion of a planning approach that permits the retention and incorporation of natural areas and other open spaces within the urban structure, that combats rapid urban expansion and furthers the goal of sustainable development. The conclusions serve as a starting point for the planning of other cities in similar circumstances.