Environmental Resources Management, Inc (ERM) was engaged by ESCI to undertake the first two studies for the NDC: the Vulnerability and Risk Assessment of Natural Hazards (Risk Study) and urban Growth Study (Urban Study). These two studies build upon the work and methodologies ERM has used and developed in conjunction with the ESCI team for similar studies in Cochabamba, Bolivia and Managua, Nicaragua. This report presents the consolidated findings of the study, and further details and information are contained in both the referenced appendices and supporting deliverables such as a GIS database.
This report presents the results of the two studies (collectively referred to as the ESCI Growth Study) undertaken and importantly, the analysis, findings and recommendations have been combined to seek to address the complex question of where and how should urban development occur in the NDC given the different dynamics and forces that will shape population growth and migration in the area. This report is intended to provide planning tools and insights, and a building block upon which more prescriptive plans and planning policies can be developed, as well as to help guide decisions about accommodating and influencing future growth.