Contemporary urban planning: the importance and consequences of citizen participation in the processes and decisions about urban space

Planejamento urbano contemporâneo: importância e consequências da participação dos cidadãos nos processos e decisões sobre o espaço urbano

Planification urbaine contemporaine: l’importance et les conséquences de la participation citoyenne dans les processus de décisions concernant ‘l’espace urbain

La planificación urbana contemporánea: la importancia y las consecuencias de la participación ciudadana en los procesos de toma de decisiones sobre el espacio urbano

Abstract:

This paper contemplates on the importance of empowering local communities to develop urban interventions. One example of such importance is observed on the revitalization of a square of Passo Fundo, RS, Brazil, conducted through a public/private partnership. A survey of user satisfaction and behavior presents the appropriation of the square. Planning, design and urban management actions performed throughout a period of eight years boosted crucial changes in the neighborhood urban dynamic.

Keywords:
contemporary urban planning; empowerment of communities; urban design; urban perception; behavioral mapping