Proposta de requalificação urbana no Parque dos Cajueiros em Aracaju, Sergipe

Abstract

This final thesis analyzes Governador Carlos Valadares Park, known as Parque dos Cajueiros, located in Aracaju, Sergipe, with the aim of providing a basis for the development of urban and landscape planning guidelines for its redevelopment. The study is based on the understanding of urban parks as important green infrastructure that contributes to quality of life, social inclusion, and environmental sustainability in contemporary cities. In this context, the park is understood not only as a recreational space but also as a strategic element in urban organization and the promotion of collective well-being. The research is grounded in a literature review of the concepts of urban parks, urban regeneration, and smart cities, seeking to articulate these approaches with the local reality. The concept of urban regeneration is adopted as the primary reference because it considers the pre-existing conditions of the space, values local identity, and responds to new social, environmental, and urban demands. Furthermore, the discussion on smart cities broadens the debate by highlighting the importance of innovation, efficient management, and the strategic use of technologies in the planning and management of public spaces. Methodologically, the study employs a qualitative approach, with an exploratory and descriptive nature. A literature and documentary review was conducted, along with an analysis of urban planning legislation, technical visits to the park, photographic documentation, direct observation of the site, and interviews with users. These procedures enabled the development of an urban and landscape assessment, identifying strengths and weaknesses related to infrastructure, maintenance, accessibility, safety, and diversity of uses. The results indicate that Parque dos Cajueiros possesses significant environmental, landscape, and social potential, standing out as an important public space for leisure activities, social interaction, and contact with nature in the city of Aracaju. However, structural and management limitations were identified that compromise the park’s full functionality and its appropriation by the population. Based on this diagnosis, the study presents an urban and landscape prognosis comprising guidelines aimed at the redevelopment of the space. Among the recommendations are the improvement of infrastructure, the strengthening of maintenance and security, the expansion of accessibility, the enhancement of the landscape and vegetation, the diversification of uses, and the incorporation of technologies associated with the concept of smart cities. It is concluded that the redevelopment of Parque dos Cajueiros can significantly contribute to improving the urban and environmental quality of Aracaju, reinforcing the importance of urban parks as essential public spaces for more inclusive, sustainable, and resilient cities. The study also provides conceptual and methodological insights for future interventions in urban parks.