Assessment of The Quality of Urban Public Open Space for User’s Case Study: Inner City Public Open Space in Bahir Dar, Ethiopia
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Date
2024-02-01
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Addis Ababa University
Abstract
Public spaces play a critical role in urban environments by creating vibrant, livable communities and promoting social cohesion, civic engagement, and physical activity. The rapid urbanization in Bahir Dar has led to a decline in the quality and functionality of public spaces, presenting challenges such as misuse for unintended purposes, conversion to vacant lands, illegal waste dumping, degradation from urban floods, fragmentation due to gully formations, areas of conflict. Even some urban public open spaces might have existed in unknown conditions. These issues indicate a lack of attention to the quality and proper management of open public spaces in the city. Prioritizing the improvement of public spaces in Bahir Dar is essential to ensure they continue to serve as vital community resources, contributing to the well-being and vitality of urban areas. This study aims to assess the quality of urban public open spaces in the inner city of Bahir Dar through case studies of Shumabo Park, Millennium Park, and Mulualem Street side Public Open Space. It utilized both quantitative data from survey responses and qualitative data from mapping, photography, and direct observation. Primary data was gathered through direct observation and on-site survey questionnaires, while secondary data was obtained from relevant literature and empirical studies. Data collection involved simple random sampling, with a sample size of 100 users from each study area, totaling 300 community members. Methods of data collection included direct observation techniques such as tracing, tracking, and photography, as well as a self-administered questionnaire survey. Descriptive analysis was used based on user behavior (the frequency, duration, and type of activities) and established quality guidelines (context, place, comfort, variety, and connection), with data summarized through tables, graphs, and pictures obtained during the field survey. The study's findings indicated that the quality of the public open spaces did not adequately support optional activities and fall below desired quality levels. Scores based on five quality guidelines showed an average quality below average, indicating poor value for public open spaces. Challenges in managing and maintaining these spaces, along with a lack of public awareness and clear guidelines, contribute to their poor quality. Enhancing, revitalizing, or modifying the public open spaces in Bahir Dar is necessary to meet quality standards.
Key Words: Public Open Space, Quality