Experiences related to the Growth Acceleration Program in the urbanistic treatment of Permanent Preservation Areas in the Curitiba metropolis

Abstract This paper analyzes slum upgrading based on case studies focusing on the implementation of the Growth Acceleration Program (known as PAC) in the east side of the Curitiba metropolis, with the aim of discussing urban solutions employed in Permanent Preservation Areas (PPAs). The results showed that the interventions aimed to restore, to the maximum limit, the space of the PPAs that had been previously occupied, and that linear parks were the strategy adopted to equalize environmental and urban functions. Other findings are the existence of an impasse concerning the landscape design proposed by the state ignoring local demands, which results in the delay or interruption of the constructions, and the recurrence of the environmental degradation cycle. Advances were also observed, such as the resignification of PPAs as natural macro--drainage structures, and the use of PPAs by the community for collective leisure activities.