Construction Observatory - Phase 2

This research aims to initiate the generation of sufficient information to address the housing deficit and inaccessibility to adequate housing faced by numerous countries, through the design and implementation of specific indicators. This is a multi-causal problem driven by high construction costs, land scarcity, and the limited economic capacity of families to acquire property. Costa Rica is no exception, with the lower-middle class population being the most severely affected.
In response to population growth, the market has concentrated its housing supply on condominiums (both horizontal and vertical). These typologies remain inaccessible to the lower-income sector. Consequently, these families resort to informal and precarious solutions, such as the internal subdivision of existing land or the increase in informal settlements, which exacerbates their social vulnerability. The availability of public data that clearly evidences the diverse realities faced by many families could facilitate the implementation of actions designed to benefit those most vulnerable to this situation.
Given this scenario, the application of effective public policies, underpinned by robust and precise data, is imperative. The main objective of this project is to generate indicators that allow for the monitoring of housing affordability, accessibility, security, and quality for the lower-middle class, leveraging tools like the Construction Observatory.
This knowledge will serve as a fundamental basis for strategic decision-making and the correct allocation of state resources. Addressing the housing deficit is a national priority, as its improvement not only benefits a considerable percentage of the population but also frees up state resources for vital areas such as health, education, and security.

Propose and validate a set of measurable and relevant indicators, using available data and the structure of the Construction Observatory, to monitor the accessibility, affordability, and quality of housing for the lower-middle class population in Costa Rica.

1. Road infrastructure.
2. Urban planning, land use planning and human settlements.
3. Buildings and housing.
4. Water resources and environment.