Urban Habitability in Public Space, the Historic Center of Toluca, State of Mexico Case

Abstract

This research aims to present a methodological scheme for the evaluation of the habitability of public spaces in the historic center of the city of Toluca, using “universal” parameters focused mainly on senior adults and wheelchair users. Pedestrian accessibility was evaluated through passage between streets, ease of walking through the connectivity of streets, perception of insecurity in the face of crime, and environmental noise dB(A). In situ measurements were performed with satellite imagery and pedestrian surveys. The study unit comprised 400 × 400 m blocks. In the historic center we identified access inequity and difficult pedestrian navigation. Perception of safety is poor and the environment noisy, especially in the central area. The proposed method integrated mixed information in a holistic approach and the use of scale at the neighborhood level, providing added value. Regarding the study’s limitations we emphasize that spatial projection does not always offer causal explanations; elements of global evaluation are missing and many variables of habitability are still to be solved. In conclusion, public spaces require special attention in order to make them habitable and equitable, starting with their evaluation and involvement in public policies and management.