Territorial Planning Regulations and Instruments in Sustainable Mobility. Study Case: Quitumbe - Ecuador

Abstract

The integration of mass transit systems with immediate urban planning remains a critical challenge for regional urban sustainability in Latin America. In Quito, Ecuador, despite the implementation of the new Metro system, the strategic Quitumbe multimodal station suffers from severe traffic congestion, road insecurity, and deficient pedestrian infrastructure. Objective: This study analyzes sustainable mobility in Quitumbe by evaluating the application of Transit-Oriented Development (TOD) principles and comparing local regulations—such as the Sustainable Mobility Master Plan (PMMS 2024-2042)—with international sustainability standards. Methodology: Adopting a qualitative, descriptive, and documentary approach, this research evaluates local planning instruments (PMDOT and PUGS) against international benchmarks like the ITDP TOD Standard, assessing gaps in urban densification, land-use mix, and active mobility. Results: The comparative analysis reveals significant regulatory vacuums in the PMMS regarding neighborhood integration, the activation of strategic urban voids, and the monitoring of intermodal performance. Consequently, the study proposes actionable interventions, including a Neighborhood Integration Corridor, an urban void reuse program, and the establishment of the "Quitumbe Intermodal District" as a specialized territorial management unit. Conclusions: While the Quito Metro functions effectively as a transit backbone, local planning lacks the micro-level instruments necessary to operationalize TOD principles on the surface. Transitioning from generalized mobility guidelines to specific, data-driven territorial tools is essential to transform Quitumbe into a safe, compact, and inclusive urban centrality that aligns with Sustainable Development Goal 11 (SDG 11).

Keywords: Territorial planning, urban planning, land management, territorial sustainability.