Caminhabilidade em centros históricos : uma análise sob a ótica de pessoas com deficiência e mobilidade reduzida em Mariana (MG)

Abstract

Ensuring city access for all individuals is one of the greatest challenges in urban mobility. This challenge becomes even more intricate when considering the promotion of accessibility for people with disabilities and/or reduced mobility, especially in historic urban centers where cities were not designed with inclusive architecture and seldom anticipated the influx of individual motorized transportation. With this in mind, the study addressed issues of accessibility and the walkability conditions for people with disabilities and/or reduced mobility in historic urban centers. Encompassing topics ranging from inclusive mobility to the rights of disabled individuals, the study underscored the importance of adapting urban environments to cater to the needs of everyone. Additionally, the study delved into the impact on mobility for this specific population group, driven by both physical and attitudinal barriers. Its primary objective was to adapt the walkability index of historic urban centers from the perspective and perception of people with disabilities and/or reduced mobility. To achieve these objectives, participatory techniques and methods were utilized, including focus groups, individual interviews, guided walks, and the Best-Worst Scaling (BWS) technique. In a subsequent phase, the application of the Historic Urban Walkability Index (HUWI) was conducted within a segment of Mariana-MG's historical center. Through this application, potential spatial weaknesses were identified. Beyond physical barriers, attitudinal barriers also posed significant obstacles to the full participation of people with disabilities in urban life. The research demonstrated that the Historic Urban Walkability Index was insufficient to measure the needs of people with disabilities and reduced mobility. After adapting the index from the perspective of the research's target audience, it was found that qualitatively, walkability conditions shifted from "poor" to "good." However, these results were not realistic given the current conditions of the study area. In this regard, it was observed that specific indicators need adjustments to attain a higher level of detail, as accessibility lies in the finer details. Regarding the case study, the index's application proved to be an effective tool in evaluating walkability in Mariana-MG, even in a general sense. This served as a benchmark for proposing solutions in the built environment to enhance walkability for all individuals, emphasizing that historic cities can be adapted without compromising cultural and historical heritage. In conclusion, this dissertation highlights the importance of considering the needs of people with disabilities and reduced mobility when planning and developing historic cities. Accessible walkability not only promotes inclusion but also enriches the human experience. The research further underscores the significance of creating participatory methods in conjunction with comprehensive and collaborative public policies to achieve a common goal: creating truly vibrant, accessible, and inclusive historic cities for people.