Fernando Carrión examines the problems and perspectives for urban development of the historical center of Quito. Among the objectives to be attained are the following: a) Put a halt to urban segregation which is expressed in a deficit in housing and services, lack of economic opportunities, and the existence of tenements and emarginated neighborhoods; b) Promote decentralization in the Ecuadorean urban process and strengthen municipalities; c) Stimulate participation in decision-making and focalization of actions and strengthen popular representation. The proposed planning must be one where there is constant feedback from results and desired goals as to create a situation of permanent monitoring. Historical and cultural preservation must be understood to include the entire urban process and as a synthesis between the past and the future.