Integrated Territorial Investments as an Instrument of Urban Policy: The Case of the Bialystok Functional Area
Purpose: The aim of the article was to examine the impact of Integrated Territorial Investments on the development of cooperation between municipalities belonging to the Bialystok Functional Area. Design/Approach: The study was conducted by quantitative methods. As part of the research procedure, documentation of the Bialystok Functional Area was included. The process of creating the area and allocating European funds was presented. The impact of funds on the functioning of the area was examined. Analytical data are presented using tables and maps by the local government units. Findings: The results of the study confirmed that changes in the policy and tools for financing functional areas in the form of integrated territorial investments have enabled the development of cooperation between neighboring territorial units. The level of integration of municipalities and residents has increased. Further cooperation is needed. Practical Implications: The analysis and its results confirm the need to finance the cooperation of neighbouring local government units. The results can be used to improve financial tools. Continued research, including extension to other functional areas, may allow to see the correctness and improvement of urban policy. Originality/Value: Due to the importance of these issues for the effective functioning of functional areas, including the Bialystok functional area, it is necessary to promote this approach. The article presents funding for integrated projects in both scientific and practical terms.