Projects

Pilot study for the validation of public space indicators

Areas : Poverty and equality, Urbanization and sustainable cities
Researcher/s in charge : Juan Leon
Other researchers : Paulo Cesar Carrasco
Execution time:April 2018

Presentation

The objective was to carry out two pilot studies to assess the state of public spaces where Peruvian children develop. These studies consisted of using photos taken with drones for the geometric calculation of the dimensions and distance between objects in public spaces mentioned. The team carried out the pilot study in two districts of Lima: Comas and Carabayllo. The gathering of information allowed the generation of the following indicators: i) continuity of the pedestrian space, ii) walkability of the streets or width of the sidewalks, iii) stability in public spaces, iv) free area in children’s play spaces, v) adequate signage around educational centers, vi) unwanted uses of public spaces, and vii) accumulation of solid waste that hinders free transit.

The results showed that the parks were mostly unprotected, they did not have play facilities at all or just had basic play facilities that did not encourage creative play. Also, they were difficult to access due to inadequate trails and litter in surrounding areas, poorly maintained by the local government, and not commonly used by children. As for recommendations, the research team hopes that local governments can use the statistical information obtained to improve the public spaces they manage and that the Institute of Statistics and Informatics of Peru incorporates the instruments and indicators into the national statistical system.