Moca unveils territorial plan to guide urban growth and development through 2036
Moca, Espaillat.- The Minister of the Presidency, José Ignacio Paliza, presented Thursday the Municipal Territorial Planning Plan (PMOT) for Moca, Espaillat province, a regulatory and participatory framework that will guide land use and development in the municipality and its seven municipal districts through 2036.
Paliza emphasized the importance of implementing Law No. 368-22 on Territorial Planning, Land Use and Human Settlements, along with its regulations established under Decree No. 486-25. He stressed that land is a limited resource that requires responsible management as urban areas continue to expand.
The minister urged residents to review the proposal, available through the Moca City Council, and submit comments and recommendations before its approval.
According to the territorial diagnosis, more than 24 square kilometers of high-quality agricultural land are currently being used for non-agricultural purposes. The study also found that 14.7 square kilometers are exposed to flooding, while 43% of buildings have high or very high vulnerability to this risk.
Under the plan, 9.1% of the territory will be classified as urban land, 3.2% as developable land reserved for future growth, and 87.7% as rural land dedicated to agriculture, forestry, and environmental protection.
The PMOT includes construction guidelines for each municipal district and 108 actions organized around environmental, socioeconomic and cultural, spatial-functional, and institutional priorities.
The plan covers Moca and the districts of Canca La Reyna, Monte de la Jagua, El Higüerito, La Ortega, José Contreras, Juan López, and Las Lagunas. Authorities said its implementation will help regulate construction permits and investments, guide urban expansion, and protect the agricultural activities that underpin the local economy.
The plan envisions Moca as an orderly and sustainable territory and a regional and national center for agricultural and livestock production.
