Evaluating of Urban Space Vitality: The Role of Safety, Security, and Urban Planning in the Religion Center of Kufa City, Iraq

Abstract

Urban vitality, a critical concept that differentiates thriving cities from others, is a characteristic that infuses life into a city and stimulates its activity. This study in their objectives examines the underlying factors contributing to the vitality of urban spaces, with a specific emphasis on safety and security. A methodology that depends on the identification of a framework of five key elements -density, accessibility, social interaction, surveillance, and activities -is put forward as vital to urban vitality. The presence of these elements is postulated to be contingent on the provision of safety and security in urban environments, and their influence is believed to extend to the duration and nature of human engagement with these spaces. The open space of the religious center in Kufa City, Iraq provides the contextual setting for this investigation. These factors were measured by utilizing the Geographic Information System (GIS) data, supplemented with field surveys and observation, to measure indicators of the aforementioned elements within the study area. Additionally, statistical methods are employed to quantify some of these indicators. The findings suggest a satisfactory level of vitality within the study area, as the majority of the proposed indicators are met. This is largely attributed to the presence of safety and security measures. However, the study also identifies areas for improvement, particularly in the regulation of land use and the management of vehicle speed on roads leading to the open space.

Structural Equation Modeling of Urban Design and Sustainability in Najaf's Traditional Urban Context

“…Through the diversity of environmentally friendly means of transportation, freedom of movement and comfort, by increasing opportunities for personal transportation, the transportation network is used intensively and over short distances to support densification. Therefore, the transportation options available are high-capacity (Abdulameer et al, 2024).…”

“…Through the diversity of environmentally friendly means of transportation, freedom of movement and comfort, by increasing opportunities for personal transportation, the transportation network is used intensively and over short distances to support densification. Therefore, the transportation options available are high-capacity(Abdulameer et al, 2024).• Energy and the environment: Landscapes play a significant role in the city since they make up a significant portion of its land and serve a variety of aesthetic, social, environmental, and commercial purposes. These include providing open places for play, amusement, relaxation, and leisure.…”