Formulating Proposals

Formulating the Proposals

Reflecting on the findings from the methods and situation analysis, there is an apparent disconnect between how the CBD is characterized from the outside and the reality that its inhabitants face. While Panaji is located in the state with the highest GDP per capita, has a growing population, and is viewed as a tourist hotspot, residents claim a perceived decline in livability. Citing water mismanagement, degradation of natural capital, priceexclusive real estate, and increasing social isolation, many residents see no future for themselves in the CBD.

To guide our work, we kept creating concept statements. Being revised nearly every week, this statement evolved as we learned and received feedback from the community. The final statement reads:

“To increase the livability of the CBD for families by ensuring high-quality public space for children and improving mobility within the area.”

In agreement with Herman and Lewis, we define livability as the (in)tangible aspects of the built environment that affect a person’s ability to live, work, and play (2017). Highquality public space for children means urban space that is safe, accessible, and utilized, which allows children of all ages to learn and grow. Lastly, we understand the term mobility as a holistic understanding of how individuals move throughout the city using an array of transportation methods.

The notion that the CBD is becoming unlivable for an array of reasons is the main motivating factor behind this statement. There are many signs that the CBD is in the beginning phases of hollowing out while the periphery areas develop. This is known as the doughnut effect (Sternlieb & Hughes 1980). The warning signs of unaffordable living costs and institutions relocating to city outskirts must be met with decisive action before the effect takes hold.

“there Is no future for us In panajI. here It’s a waste of tIme. I would just lIke to move on wIth my lIfe. here you cant fIght a corrupt system.” - resIdent

The following proposals are based on the participation and empowerment of the public. While this planning phase has focused on participation, this needs to be carried through to implementation.

When all stakeholders are involved throughout the process, there are three clear benefits. The first being that locals are the experts of their place. Therefore, the planning process must facilitate the sharing of knowledge between these experts to design the best proposals. Secondly, when all stakeholders are involved from the beginning, it reduces the contention and friction between stakeholders that could arise during implementation. And thirdly, with regards to maintenance, if all stakeholders were involved from conception through to implementation, the maintenance of such a project is more likely to be driven by those who invested in it along the process.