Parks that are lived in and parks that are avoided: Habitability and quality of public space in Bellavista, Callao

Public space plays a fundamental role in the construction of livable cities, as it promotes social interaction, permanence, and the development of everyday life. However, not all parks activate these dynamics with the same intensity, as they present different levels of use and appropriation. In this context, the research aimed to identify which of the parks in the Jardines de Virú sector, located in the district of Bellavista, Callao, presents higher levels of habitability and urban quality. Likewise, the characteristics that influence these conditions were analyzed.

This research applied Jean Gehl’s methodology in The Human Dimension of Public Space (2017). First, visits were conducted to the parks to record user attendance and the activities carried out. Based on this, behavioral mappings were developed to identify patterns of permanence, movement paths, and areas of greater or lesser occupancy. Then, the physical conditions of each park were evaluated, considering accessibility, visibility, furniture, and vegetation. Finally, surveys and interviews were conducted with users, which made it possible to identify who inhabits these spaces, the reasons for their use, and their level of satisfaction.

The results indicated that Virgen de Fátima Park presents better habitability conditions in Jardines de Virú. It stands out for its large green areas and spaces with natural shade. In addition, it has facilities that the other parks do not have, such as a senior center, a playground area, and a security booth. These characteristics, together with adequate accessibility, favor greater permanence and user diversity, consolidating this park as the highest-quality public space in the sector.