Riverfront public space utilization patterns: Models and policies based on social and ecological resilience

Mr. Ahmadin (Faculty of Social Sciences, Universitas Negeri Makassar (UNM), Indonesia)

TEBAR SCIENCE (Jurnal Kajian Sosial dan Budaya)
Vol 10 No 1 (2026): TEBAR SCIENCE: JURNAL KAJIAN SOSIAL DAN BUDAYA

Studies on the utilization patterns of public spaces, particularly city parks, town squares, sidewalks, highways, malls, and coffee shops in urban areas, have been a topic of considerable interest among researchers. However, riverbank areas are often overlooked as opportunities for public space utilization. This study examines the strategic potential of riverbank areas, which have so far been considered merely ecological infrastructure, but which, if optimally managed through good spatial planning, can strengthen a city's identity. The research method used is a study of relevant literature and a policy review to assess the utilization model for ecological, recreational, economic, and community-based participatory aspects. The results show that the success of a city government in developing public spaces is determined by adaptive, participatory, and ecologically sustainable policies.