The dinamics of infra-urban open space of the city of Santa Maria - RS

Abstract

This paper aims to present the categorization of the public and private intra-urban open spaces of the city of Santa Maria, RS, Brazil. These were contextualized from a landscape perspective by Santa Maria nucleus of the QUAPÁ-SEL research group. The main purpose of this article is to discuss the open spaces functionality and distribution in the city. The methodology adopted presents a systematic organization of the open space system using the following analyses: categorization of open spaces; localization, accessibility and proximity in the city: characterization of physical and environmental conditioning factors; characterization of physical structures; charaterization of immediate surroundings; and finally, a comparative analysis of the cases presented. Therefore, we hope to create bases for analysis that encourage the formulation of directives for a more balanced and effective re-organization of the city's open space system, thus aiming to give value to its function and perpetuate its utilization by the community in order to mitigate environmental and social problems by promoting inclusion and social-envirornmental integration in the urban structure. We concluded that the public and private leisure and recreational intra-urban open spaces are fundamental elements for a dynamic social setting, providing a catalyst for social integration and cohesion among citizens. By so doing, we will be perpetuating the use of open spaces as fundamental components to the urban and landscape structure of the city, bolstering collectivity and citizenship and contributing to a better urban quality of life.