The Valle de Lo Aguirre occupies a strategic place near the center of Chile's most important crossroads. The Pan-American Highway, a trans-continental viaduct connecting Alaska to Tierra del Fuego meets Route 68 in Santiago. This regional seaward spur is a vital corridor linking Chile's capital city with its second largest, Valparaiso, home of the National Congress. The master plan site is located in the Valle de Lo Aguirre, within Santiago's 'Comuna de Pudahuel'. The University of Chile has owned the 1011.1-hectare property since 1994 when the Chilean government granted the land as a "free and permanent" land concession. There are four major components or Parques, associated with the Pudahuel master plan. The Science and Technology Zone is conceived as a progressive work environment for innovative and visionary enterprises that benefits directly from the pool of intellectual talent within the academic realm of the University of Chile. The Academic Zone is where the University's satellite campus and other educational uses will reside, thus participating in the synergistic relationship with the neighboring advanced technology enterprises. The Open Space Zone will continue to provide a substantial surface where the native habitat may be enjoyed and protected, as well as where public parks and outdoor activities will take place. This open space will be accessible to all neighboring communities within metropolitan Santiago. The Recreational Zone will house establishments that will both serve as international beacons as well as provide support services for the other three components of the plan. |
