Urban Restructuring in Volta Redonda-RJ: a Polycentric and Fragmented Medium-Sized City

Abstract

Considering the new spatial dynamics in medium-sized cities, this article aims to understand the urban restructuring in the southeastern vector of Volta Redonda-RJ, focusing on new real estate developments, especially those constructed in the last 20 years. Methodologically, the study involved a literature review on the proposed topics, fieldwork for observation and data collection, as well as  semi-structured interviews. It was found that many investments are being implemented in the southeastern  vector of Volta Redonda, with Shopping Park Sul playing a  prominent role since its inauguration in 2018, reinforcing urban polycentricity. The new residential developments cater to middle to high-income populations, reinforcing the process of segregation in the city, which, coupled with the new spatial practices of these residents, solidifies the process of socio-spatial fragmentation in Volta Redonda.