Comparison of regional planning strategies: Countywide general plans in USA and territorial plans in Spain

The regional plans of developed countries follow a few common patterns. Both subjects under research have many similarities. Nevertheless, regional plans analyze spaces with different development issues and perspectives with key questions varying from a pro-development dimension to a conservationist dimension, depending on concrete conditions.This research analyzes how the regional plans of rural areas of California (El Dorado and Nevada) and Extremadura (Campo Arañuelo and La Vera) treat land uses and infrastructure. Specifically, it analyzes the goals, objectives, implementation mechanisms, policies and strategies – all important aspects for the development of non-urban counties, especially in orienting and determining the use of resources as well as the orientation of its determinations.The aims and the proposals of plans are different in the four cases under research. While in the counties of a relatively poor region as Extremadura, the final aim is the socioeconomic development and the growth of the employment, preserving the natural patrimony; in the counties of California, the final aim is to increase the quality of life, improving the natural and cultural patrimony, the sustainable mobility, safety and equity, but also, interest in economic development.It is interesting to observe the balance between the economic growth and quality of life because of a possible conflict. The concept of growth is problematic in itself, as resources are limited. Existing resources diminish at a low rate, the quality of natural environment decreases putting increasing pressure on weak and poor regions. The tendencies of unorganized and unsecure growth are evident on regional scale. Sustainability is a word used more and more to define a capable way of living to prove and reverse some of the damage done and maintain the resources for the future. Economic development should not take place at the cost of environment.Regional planning strategies provide the framework around which policy and decisions should be made once the counties determine upon the most feasible and sustainable economic development pattern. A sustainable economic pattern should promote a socially, environmentally and economic-balanced approach to rural development.

► Regional plans offer the possibility of reconsidering the strategic development frame.
► Relates to the general and territorial plans in California and Extremadura region.
► Examines the integration of land use and infrastructure in two different regional plans.
► These regional plans identify the existing problems, strengths and opportunities.
► Cases will expand a sustainable economic model based on regional plans’ strategies.