New Regionalization Proposal from the Planning Board of Puerto Rico

The Planning Board, represented by architect Liz Melendez, presented to the Board of Directors of DISUR preliminary results and recommendations of the study for the territorial definition of the regions of Puerto Rico. The meeting took place April 28, 2010 in the activity room of Villas de Sotomayor in Adjuntas. The proposed definition splits the South Region to a fraction of its present size, and would group the municipalities of Guayama, Arroyo and Patillas with the central region of Caguas.

Several members of the Board of Directors of DISUR detailed the negative impact that the proposed plan would have on the economy and on the southern region's ability to compete. They added further that the plan would be particularly harmful to Ponce and Guayama because these municipalities are two centers of economic development that maintain synergy. It was noted that both municipalities have industries that allow for the development of value added areas to the flagship project of the Port of the Americas.

The DISUR board thanked Melendez for her presentation and appreciated the effort of the Planning Board, but most of all was urged to re-evaluate the regionalization process considering all the issues raised and the importance of continuity of socio-economic development efforts that highlight sustainable competitive advantages globally.