Protection and security in public spaces

Comparative evaluation of Agenor Moreira Square

Abstract

Aspects of morphology and urban design can have a positive influence on public safety in urban squares. Interventions aimed at enhancing these spaces can bring benefits to vitality and security, making them more lively, welcoming, and frequented by the population. Thus, this article presents a comparative analysis between the period before and after the renovation of Agenor Moreira Square, located in the municipality of Vila Velha-ES, highlighting positive effects on public safety resulting from the changes made that resulted in greater use and appropriation. The methodology involved, in a first stage, the application of indicators related to the "Protection and Security" category of the socio-environmental quality assessment and classification tool for urban squares "QualificaURB," as well as the preparation of maps analyzing morphological and urban aspects and a survey of criminal incidents in the square and its surroundings, considering the six months before and after the renovation. The results assist in validating the analytical-classificatory instrument and highlight that the improvements made, even if focused on intrinsic aspects of the square without involving interventions in its surroundings, have been contributing positively to the reduction of crime in the area. However, it is emphasized that maintenance, monitoring, and continuous community actions are also essential for the safety of the space.