Safe cities through urban design: The case of San Juan de Lurigancho

Abstract

Road insecurity has been a concern in San Juan de Lurigancho (Lima, Peru), making residents feel unsafe when moving on foot or by bicycle. The emphasis on automobiles in planning roadways and cities causes this issue. In addition to the low design quality of the streets, there really is minimal upkeep and the informality of Peruvians. After an investigation of the area and interviews with several locals, it was determined that one of the district’s crossing points, Avenidas Próceres de la Independencia with Av. El Sol shows a high degree of road insecurity, which is reflected in traffic accidents. In addition, it was observed that the area presents a large lost space, the berm under Line 1 of the Lima Metro. This analysis helped in the proposal of an urban design that enhances the urban area in a sustainable way, where the pedestrian is focused, generating walkable cities that are safe and suitable for all types of users.