Comparison to other Blogs

In our blog, we studied public spaces, their importance, uses, factors which make them successful and ways in which they fail. After viewing blogs written by our peers we found that some themes and ideas were intertwined with one another.

1. Pulse of the City - Jameel Smith and Kaaria Quash 

We found this particular blog quite intriguing. Jameel and Kaaria were able to capture the essences of Port-of-Spain using cool intellect and beautifully captured photographs. They looked at features which makes a city recognizable, having realized that 'the capital cannot be constrained to one paradigm'. They studied the Queen's Park Savannah, one of Port-of-Spain's most active public spaces, and discussed how this space and others like it diversifies the city. Furthermore, they highlighted the fact that the city is not only about politics and finance but about people and how they interact.

Link to Pulse of the City - http://urbangeographers.wix.com/port-of-spain

2.  Urban Vendors in Trinidad - Jeremy Roberts and Clonesha Romeo

According to the blog by Jeremy Roberts and Clonesha Romeo they focused on one specific use of a public space, street vending. They spoke about how about the vendors sometimes clutter the streets but with the provision of booths they are able to contribute to the more efficiently to the economy. This concept ties in well with our blog as we delved into the uses of a public space and ways in which it can be improved to be a successful public space. Pollution by these vendors can be reflective of the improper use of public spaces, which sometimes discourages others from using the space available for them. They also mentioned that with the growth of the cities vendors, vendors become affected by the privatized public spaces. Over all their blog we well written and documented. We were able to draw a great deal of similar themes and ideas with Jeremy and Clonesha’s blog Urban Vendors in Trinidad.

Link to Pulse of the City - http://urbanscapesandspaces.tumblr.com/

3. Urbanistas - Jaimeil Agard and Johanna Reyes

Urbanistas was a rather interesting blog which focused on women and their role in the city. In our blog we mention that women were more frequent users than men in the city and its public spaces. They shared the same thoughts and highlighted that, this is an important function of the city as it facilitates social interactions. Furthermore, access to public spaces for women to interact and socialize is increasingly shrinking due to the failure of public spaces.

Link to Urbanistas - http://youngurbanistas.blogspot.com/

Shrinking Space

One reason why public spaces are failing is because the public realm is shrinking. Urban cities are influenced by public spaces. We know that public spaces serve to bring together people of different backgrounds and instill in them a sense of belonging and commonality. However, many of the places we consider as public are really “privatized” public spaces or “publicized” private spaces. Places like shopping centers, theme parks, arcades, gallerias, plazas and malls are advertised as being “public”, however access to these areas are based on financial status and appearance. According to an article by Tridib Banerjee , “The sanctity of the private spaces is preserved by excluding the unholy and unwashed – the panhandlers, the winos, the homeless, and simply the urban poor.” This results in segregation of the public as only certain people are allowed to utilize the area. The public realm is also being affected by the communication and information technology revolution. Instead of going outside and communicating face – to – face with other people, we now choose to do basic tasks online, such as chatting with friends and family, shopping, banking, even playing games, as it is easier and more time efficient. We are now all citizens of cyberspace and cyber communities where the conventional concepts of public space and place are increasingly becoming outmoded (Banerjee 2001). 

"A slave to technology!" This is one one the reasons for the shrinking of public spaces. Even in one of Trinidad's most frequented public space, the Chagauramas Boardwalk, these young people choose to be on their cell phones than to socialize with each other and make use of the beautiful space.

Publicized private spaces and privatization of public spaces are the drivers of a shrinking public realm. Even though shopping malls and plazas such as the one in the photo (Movietowne Port-of-Spain) are said to be open to the public, not everyone is welcome. Mainly because access and utilization of these areas are based on ones financial status and social class. 

 

How to improve public spaces?

What defines the character of a city is its public space, not its private space.
-Dr. Joan Clos, Executive Director, UN Habitat. So how do we build on the character of the city? The only logical thing left to do is to improve the public spaces in the city, but how? Well there are several ways in which public spaces can be improved to facilitate a balanced well integrated community. The cities should be redesigned to be to accommodate people and not just automobiles. It should be a safe place for pedestrians to walk as well as accommodate drivers and cyclist in the most efficient way. There can also be the introduction of more squares and parks which can function as multi-use destinations. A well planned and designed park and square will encourage people to use the site. Additionally it will encourage businesses and investments into the area, helping to build local economies through markets. Well-structured markets can also be built to reduce the chaos of the traditional market, which generally results in cluttered streets. It assists in the growth of small businesses and improving food safety whilst making it more appealing to the users.

The public space should be considered whenever development is going to take place. In Trinidad designers tend to neglect pavements and construct their buildings “in the road” so to speak, leaving no room for the pedestrians to walk except in the roadways putting them at risk. It is about creating a space which feels natural among the development which is taking place in the city. A major factor to consider when improving a public space is public health. Provisions of public restrooms with clean water, sanitation and sewage treatment. It is essential to create an identity for the community, one which reflects their culture generating a sense of place. It is also important to develop more green space so that the users can enjoy a more open environment where they can escape the busy city. It is clear that planning and designing plays a significant role in the improvement of public spaces.

Picture 1 Showing a Reinvented 'Scale House' which is Now a Bus Stop

Picture 2 the Old Scale House in Rio Claro, Source - http://mayarorioclaro.com/sites-around-us/

Picture 2 and Picture 1 shows before and after the improvement of the scale house. The Mayaro Rio Regional Corporation has taken pride in improving the town. The scale house now acts as a bus stop and has comfortable seating for patrons, it is also properly covered and adds to the aesthetics of the town. There are beautiful ornamental plants to add to the green space. 

Picture 3 Showing Public Restrooms on the Boardwalk

There was the recent upgrade of the board walk in Chagaramas, previously there were no public restrooms. The improvements has now made this, already tourist attraction an even more desirable destination for everyone. Many persons use this site for recreation at various times of the day. The night life at the boardwalk has significantly increased, as a result of the improvements made. There are lots of security lights and the Chagaramas Development Association (CDA) Police, regularly patrols the area adding to its safety.

Picture 4 Showing Rio Claro Market

The Rio Claro Farmers market was improved to facilitate the farmers and their customers. Each individual pays a small fee to occupy spot in the market. There was even the installation of security cameras to add to the comfort of the businesses and its patrons. The Corporation maintains the place and keeps it clean. 

Why do Public Spaces Fail?

From previous posts, we have learnt the importance and significance of public spaces within the city. However some of these spaces are failing. Successful public spaces are tricky when it comes to designing. According to William H. Whyte, "It is difficult to design a space that will not attract people - what is remarkable is how often this has been accomplished." Who knows people better than people? Urban architects should not have issues when creating an efficient space, yet somehow they manage to do so. Many public spaces today are designed to be looked at but not touched (Project for Public Spaces). Additionally if a public space is dirty, vandalized or used by the homeless we consider it undesirable. Why this negative stigma? 

Do all public spaces cater to the needs of the public?

How do these spaces fail? The PPS has identified a few reasons, some of which are :

1. Lack of spaces to sit/lack of good places to sit. Many public spaces usually do not have sufficient seating areas. This is a major turn off. Who would want to go somewhere where you have to stand during the entire visit? Then there are some that do have seats but they are uncomfortable or vandalized making them undesirable.

This photo shows a section of Harris Promenade in San Fernando. We see very limited seating space and the seats themselves are dirty and a bit dilapidated. I wouldn't sit there, would you?

This photo was taken in Port-of-Spain at one of the public bus-stops. Note there is very limited seating (one bench which is not even being used) and everyone is left standing. 

2. Lack of gathering points. Gathering points are created from a combination of features such as playgrounds, and varying elements such as bus stops, vending carts, outdoor seating and food transits. 

Above we see a public space ( Kings Warf, San Fernando) where there is nothing to invite people in. Sure the view will be beautiful and yes there is ample seating space, but where's the food? Where's the fun?

3. Poor entrances and visually inaccessible spaces. One of the features of a successful place is proper accessibility. If entrances and exits are not visible or are "sketchy" how would people access the space? Woodford Square for example is a notable public space in Port-of-Spain. However entrances are difficult to locate since and are usually locked. What's  the point of having gates to a PUBLIC PLACE locked. 

This was an entrance to a public park in Rio Claro. See how unsightly? 

The photo above shows a failed space. See how the area is not maintained and overgrown with grass. Seating is scarce and the benches available are dirty and dilapidated. Entrances are not properly visible and there aren't any features to draw people in. Who would want to spend time here? Which child would want to play here?

For more info: http://www.pps.org/reference/failedplacefeat/

What Makes a Successful Public Space? Part 2

The PPS's Place Diagram. Source - http://www.pps.org/reference/grplacefeat/ 

Having focused on Accessibility and Comfort and image in a previous post, we will now look at Sociability and Uses.

3. Great public spaces contribute to community health - whether socially, economically, culturally or environmentally (PPS 2016), so why not ensure that it facilitates interactions and socialization? In many cities it is hard to achieve this aspect due to poor planning and design. To meet this criteria I believe that the space must encourage persons to gather and interact with one another. Ensure the area is well maintained and easy on the eyes. Implement features such as food stands and play parks to capture children as well their parents, draw people in and make them want to revisit the place over and over again. Remember, a public space is not only a region of social life located apart from the realm of family and close friends but also the realm of acquaintances and strangers (Goheen 1998). As such a successful place should encourage socialization with strangers. Make some new friends! Hug a stranger! You never know who you may run into... (you might even meet your soul mate!).

Palmiste Park (shown above) is a well known public space in South Trinidad on the outskirts of San Fernando. Lots of people venture to this area on afternoons to either exercise, purchase food from local vendors or just to spend time with the family. As can be seen in the photo people also visit the park for celebrations. Here we see a family setting up to celebrate a birthday. It was very refreshing to see this, since in this modern age we all tend to gravitate towards indoor parties in club like environments and fancy halls. When asked why they chose this park they stated that they feel comfortable there and the area is safe, there are always people around they get to buy coconut water from a local vendor. Also its an inexpensive way to gather the family together for a fun afternoon without the hustle and bustle. 

This photo was taken at the Emperor Valley Zoo in Port-of-Spain, Trinidad. Although it  is open to the public, entrance fees are required making more of a privatized public space (this will be discussed in a later post). However we see how it encourages socialization (in this case with a boa constrictor!). Families plan outings, schools take students there on field trips. It is a great place to spend time with family and friends and meet new people.

4. Now, ensuring that the space is accessible,comfortable and encourages socialization is fundamental in making it successful but eventually we'll get bored of going and having nothing to do but sit and talk. According to the project for public spaces, "Having something to do gives people a reason to come to a place - and return."Therefore, for ultimate success, the place should also have activities than stimulates peoples interest. Communities can put on live shows, have a fun area for kids, even for adults (I wouldn't mind going down a slide or taking a swing). This will also encourage socialization as participating in activities as groups is more fun that doing them alone. 

The San Jose De Ortana Park in St. Joseph has incorporated a play area for children. The gazebo is used by the community to put on shows and displays at various times throughout the year. I was a bit curious as to why there weren't many people present at the time the photo was taken. I looked at the scene with new eyes taking into consideration what I learnt so far about successful places. Upon further examination, I found that access to this park was very limited (not seen in the photo). The one gate that allowed entry for the differently able was locked and the other entrances were a tight fit. There were seating areas, most of which were damaged. The area wasn't very well kept but it was secure. There weren't any features to draw you in except for the children's area and it dawned.. this space isn't  successful!

References 

1.Goheen, Peter. "Public Space and the Geography of the Modern City." Progress in Human Geography, 1998, 479-96. Accessed March 2016. http://studiereis.fondsbkvb.nl/wp-content/uploads/2010/06/Goheen-Peter-G-Public-space-and-the-geography-of-the-modern-city.pdf. 

2.Project for Public Spaces. "What Makes a Successful Place?" Project for Public Spaces. Accessed March 2016. http://www.pps.org/reference/grplacefeat/. 

3.Torma, Carolyn. "Successful Public Spaces." American Planning Association. July/August 2006. Accessed March 2016. https://www.planning.org/chapters/editors/thecommissioner/2006/sum01.htm. 

Haven't seen Part 1? Check it out at http://whypublicspacesfail.blogspot.com/2016/04/what-makes-successful-public-space-part.html 

Who Use Public Spaces?

We have learnt so much already about public spaces, but who uses public spaces? We mentioned that there were cultural, social and political events in public spaces, so obviously there would be people who use the space. The use of public spaces is dependent on time of day and day of the week, and is affected by what is on offer in a particular place at a particular time. People who are of different age groups would use public places at different times. Typically during the day you will find older persons shopping, for example on St. James street Port of Spain, there is a plethora of street vendors and shoppers flooding the streets. Retired persons and young children can also be seen using public spaces during the day. In the afternoon children and young people are usually prominent after school hours, however out of school or during the vacation many young persons can be seen occupying much of the public places. At night, young persons usually dominate around this time. Some groups tend to self-segregate themselves with respect to their use of various public spaces. Women also tend to use streets and public spaces more often than men and for a greater amount of reasons as well. Places such as beaches, playgrounds and promenades serves as a melting pot for socialising among the various age and ethnic groups. We cannot forget the group of people we tend to neglect, the homeless also occupy public spaces. Public Spaces is where they usually go when they become displaced, they consider the streets their home.

People at Maracas Beach, Trinidad

The image above shows various different people using the beach. This just goes to show that everyone enjoys going to the beach, no matter the age, gender or ethnicity, This is definitely one public place which has no boundaries with respect to who comes or not. Maracas Beach is public beach people have the pleasure of using at their convenience. There has also been public events hosted on the beach which adds to the attraction of the beach.

Independence Square Port of Spain Trinidad

This picture shows the ever so lively and busy Independence Square in Port of Spain. It is plain to see that people use this square whether it is to rest their tired feet, lounge around, wait for a taxi or just passing through. Independence Square is a popular Square in Port of Spain and is frequently used by many persons. Here there might be some decreased social interaction among the different age groups. School children would seldom make any eye contact or conversations with the older folks.

  

Children Playing at a Public Park

The photo above shows a public park where children are seen playing and sitting on the grass. People can also be seen sitting on the bench behind them. One way in which this public place was successful was the provisions of benches and a playground. The benches made it comfortable for parents ti sit and wait as their children play. It can also entertain a different crowd of people in the night, young adults may even come to sit or picnic. 

For more info:http://www.pps.org/reference/jjacobs-2/
http://www.rudi.net/books/
http://futureofplaces.com/wp-content/uploads/2015/04/FoP_Benefits-of-Public-Space.pdf

Public Space and Politics

Public space and politics? What could public space possibly have to do with politics? There is a significant amount of influence on a public space by politics. The idea of the “public sphere” as an arena of political deliberation and participation, and therefore as fundamental to democratic governance, has a long and distinguished history (Smith, 2006). Historically many of these public spaces has been used for democratic forums and for use by the civil society. There would have been rallies, protests and various other political forums. Politics also helped in the formation and the structure of cities, politicians strategically placed public spaces in order to declare political power, however the political power of the public spaces can be dissipated.  The Politics of Public Space and Culture is an appeal to save those public parks and plazas that have historically facilitated social interactions and political engagement, not only in Latin America, but in other parts of the world as well. (Austin, 2000).

Ornate Fountain at Woodford Square Port of Spain

Woodford Square in Port of Spain has been a social and political icon due to the riveting history which lies behind this space. Before its current name it was called Brunswick Square, this is when the Germans took charge of the area. However the name was changed to Woodford Square in 1917 when Sir Ralph Woodford, a British Governor of Trinidad took charge and transformed the square and some of the city, after the fire in 1808. The fountain in the picture above was donated by the Scotsman Gregor Trunbull in 1866. During the pre-independence period (Trinidad gained independence in 1962), the Square was use by Dr. Eric Williams, the first Prime Minister of Trinidad and Tobago to deliver a lecture on leadership and government. The Square was since then given the moniker "The University Square." The square became grounds for continued political activity and a place for persons to voice their opinions.

Description Of the Historical Woodford Square Placed by the Ministry of Tourism

The Picture above is a sign which was placed by the Ministry of Tourism in the Square to give a brief description on the history of the square. It allows the users of the Square to appreciate the same square they use, and understand the role it played in the Political history of Trinidad and Tobago.

What Makes a Successful Public Space? Part 1

We have looked at various aspects of public spaces, but we have yet to learn on what makes these spaces a success. Sociologist William H. Whyte, while carrying out studies on public spaces, observed that,"A good new urban space builds a new constituency. It stimulates people into new habitats - al fresco lunches - and provides new paths to and from work, new places to pause. It does all this very quickly." So what exactly can be considered a successful public space? Great public spaces are those places where celebrations are held, social and economic exchanges occur, friends run into each other, and cultures mix (PPS 2016). The Project for Public Spaces (PPS) is an organization dedicated to helping create and sustain public spaces. They have evaluated public spaces around the world and have come up with four qualities of a great space. This post will look at the first two, based on their Place Diagram. 

The PPS's Place Diagram. Source - http://www.pps.org/reference/grplacefeat/ 

1. Successful public spaces are those which are easily accessible to and from other areas. Entrances to these places should be clearly visible both  close up and at a distance. Visibility instills a sense of safety and safety invites people in.  A good idea will be to ensure that walls do not block the view of entrances and exits. Fifty percent of the space should be open to the sidewalk (American Panning Association 2015), as this makes commuting to and from the place easier. Also, there should not be a limit to people who want to use public spaces. Therefore, accessibility for disabled persons should be provided.  

This photo was taken in the city of Port-of-Spain and shows one of the many squares located in the city. As you can see the square is enclosed by a metal structure. Even though it can be classified as "safe", the entrances are difficult to spot from a distance. Further instigation showed that there were at least four entrances in total, which is accessible to both able-bodied and disabled persons. Even though I'm all for safety, I personally feel that barricading the square gives out a negative feel, that its saying "DO NOT ENTER!", which defeats the whole purpose of a public space in bringing people together. 

Here is another of Port-of-Spain's public spaces, Independence Square. Unlike the previous square, it is not protected but it is easily accessible to everyone. The entire square opens out onto the sidewalk. This square is situated in the Central Business District of Port-of-Spain and commute to and from various shopping malls and stores is very easy.

This photo is of Harris Promenade in San Fernando. Similarly to Independence Square it is opens out onto the sidewalk. It is located between schools such as St. Joseph's Convent and San Fernando Boy's R.C. When i was a student at St. Joseph's Convent, my friends and I would look forward to afternoons where we would go onto the promenade to buy snow cones or meet up with friends from neighboring schools such as  Presentation College and Naparima Girls High School. There were a few issues with street dwellers and dilapidated seats and benches but I still believe it can be classed as a success.

2. Another important factor of a successful public space is its comfort and image. And why shouldn't it be considered? People look for comfort wherever they go and in everything they do. Would you like to spend time in an area which is dirty, unsafe and where there is nowhere to sit? As such, the space should be aesthetically pleasing to the eye, have some form of security and should be filled with ample seating  areas. According to the American Planning Association, "Women tend to sit to the rear of plazas and in grassy public spaces. men prefer to sit close to the street. Therefore, seating that allows people to face the street to observe the action on the street is important." Movable Seating Is a Plus! (APA 2015)

The photograph above depict Woodford Square on a quiet Sunday afternoon. I believed this particular public space met the criteria for comfort and image as it was visually appealing (water fountain (not seen in the photo), grassy areas and numerous trees), safe (the square was completely fenced around with sufficient entry points) and there were multiple benches and tables to gather around and have a seat. 

The famous Chagarauamas Boardwalk is an ideal depiction of comfort and beauty. One can sit on one the many circular benches whilst enjoying a picturesque view of the ocean. After visiting this locality numerous times, it has grown to become one of my favourite spaces. The Boardwalk encompasses both of the factors identified so far which contribute to a successful place which are accessibility and comfort and image.

The Hyatt Waterfront in Port-of-Spain is also a good example which shows comfort and beauty. It is both visually and physically appealing. 



REFERENCES 

1. Project for Public Spaces. "What Makes a Successful Place?" Project for Public Spaces. Accessed March 2016. http://www.pps.org/reference/grplacefeat/.

2. Torma, Carolyn. "Successful Public Spaces." American Planning Association. July/August 2006. Accessed March 2016. https://www.planning.org/chapters/editors/thecommissioner/2006/sum01.htm.