Improvement of the Territory as a Factor of the Modern Development of the Urban Environment (Based on the Example of Irkutsk)

Abstract

Improvement of the urban environment in Irkutsk is one of the most important and actively developing areas of the municipal economy. This is affirmed by the annual increase in the value of the quality index of the urban environment. According to the latest value of the index, the urban environment in Irkutsk is deemed favorable. However, it was assessed that the city has a rather acute shortage of green spaces such as parks, squares, embankments, and gardens. Currently, Irkutsk is being modernized under the state program of “Formation of a comfortable and safe urban environment for 2018–2025”. The purpose of this program is to ensure further amelioration of the urban environment in Irkutsk by landscaping urban areas and increasing public and environmental safety. According to our analysis and study of ongoing landscaping in Irkutsk, when working on projects for a wholesome and comfortable life of people, developers tend to focus on recreation parks, sports parks, and squares. However, they tend to overlook development of social infrastructure, in particular, inclusive parks and playgrounds, which could be available for the disabled and physically-challenged. Thus, it is proposed to develop an inclusive park available for people with special needs.