Turner's upgrading project begins in Peru
Overview
In Peru, John Turner studied the housing processes among the urban poor and observed the potential and resourcefulness of squatters. Urban upgrading emerged as an alternative to moving poor people or replacing slum areas with high-rise buildings. Upgrading consists of improving the existing infrastructure, e.g. water reticulation, sanitation, storm drainage and electricity; and providing incentives for community management and maintenance, as well as the construction of clinics and schools.
Upgrading has significant advantages; it is not only an affordable alternative to clearance and relocation (which cost up to 10 times more than upgrading), but it minimizes as well the disturbance to the social and economic life of the community. The results of upgrading are highly visible, immediate and make a significant difference in the quality of life of the urban poor.
Resources