The Sierras Chicas Valley is an urban system whose main expression is the conurbation between the city of Córdoba and the various towns that have developed along the valley, connected by two main road corridors: provincial routes E57 and E53. This work focuses on the urban analysis of the southern portion of the Valley, which spans – from south to north – the northwest urban edge of Córdoba and the urban areas of La Calera, Saldán, Villa Allende, Mendiolaza, Unquillo, and Río Ceballos.

The aim is to gain a comprehensive understanding of the urban situation in the area. In a second scale of study, attention is given to the town of Mendiolaza, to better understand its issues, advantages, opportunities, and challenges, which should be considered for the subsequent programmatic proposal and urban design of the section of provincial route E53 and the adjacent lots that run through the center of the town.

The diagnostic analysis consists of maps, infographics, and data providing information on various topics: demographics, vehicular and pedestrian mobility, transport routes, land value and residential developments, amenities (cultural, educational, sports, health, and services), and accessibility to them; environment (flood risks, fires, types of vegetation, etc.), available infrastructure and services (water, gas, sewage, electricity), land use, current regulations, and existing plans.

The conclusions, challenges, and opportunities identified in this first diagnostic phase served as input for defining four strategic interventions in the Mendiolaza section. These areas aim to address the challenges of the region and capitalize on the potential of a sector with high urban and environmental value, proposing a set of programs and services deemed appropriate with a projection for positive local impact.