Enredos da dinâmica urbano-regional sulmaranhense: reflexões a partir da centralidade econômica de Açailândia, Balsas e Imperatriz

Abstract

This study discusses and analyzes essential aspects of recent urban-regional Sulmaranhense dynamics drawn from the decade of 1950. For this purpose, three spatiality were elected that present significant socioeconomic functions within the urban network investigated. These are the cities of Açailândia, Balsas and Imperatriz which are located in southern and southwestern portions of the state of Maranhão. This analysis was guided by reading the (historical, political, economic and demographic) understood as responsible for the socio-spatial formation and structure of this urban-regional arrangement. The methodological frameworks used were based on the adoption of key concepts understood as useful to illuminate this study, namely: city, region, medium-sized cities, urban network, urban-regional centrality, major projects and planning. Associated with these instruments held an exploratory descriptive study based on a qualitative approach, and as a research strategy case study which included the use of multiple techniques, particularly, observation, document analysis and semi-structured interviews. The organization of the data resulted in the preparation of maps, charts and graphs that show the connections and socioeconomic relations between the major urban centers of the region Sulmaranhense. The analysis of socioeconomic centralities Açailândia, Balsas and Imperatriz also considered demographic and economic dynamism assumed by these cities from the 1960s. Due to this reflection it was noted that there are strong imbalances between these urban centers. This way, it was presented as suggestions to correct these asymmetries few instruments that guided the Portuguese spatial planning, especially those ones reflected in medium-sized cities.