Spatial conflict, exclusion and public space in the urban center of Xalapa, Veracruz

Abstract

Physical interventions to transform the public spatiality of historical centrality in Xalapa City, Veracruz have been increased in the past decade. This work analyzes the character and orientation of public interventions to transform and improve the urban public places. The case study was carry out with a research tool using two scenarios, which social-urban analysis allows to discuss the governmental intentions that, in association with private sector, reset the already mentioned spatialities. The research empirical results show that these processes area are dominated by a minority groups of interest over the citizenship. The whole situation affects the community sense, inclusion and pluralist function and public space democracy.

Keywords:
Public space; Historic center; Social-urban conflict; Social exclusion; Urban appropriations