Research by FGV’s Rio de Janeiro Law School (Direito Rio), about urban park management in Brazil, will address the possible legal frameworks to be applied to urban park management, which historically has been less researched than natural parks.

Direito Rio’s Center for Research in Law and Economics (CPDE), in partnership with Instituto Semeia, will develop an analysis methodology that can be used by city managers when evaluating different urban park management possibilities, based on a multi-sectoral approach. Four parks in the city of Sao Paulo and one in Porto Alegre will be analyzed as case studies.

The goal is to learn about the main attractions and laws applicable to the management of these areas, ultimately generating insights into the most effective management models. The study will also consider International models recognized for their successful experiences, such as New York’s Central Park, in order to improve and deepen the reflections proposed at a national level. Before its renovation project, the region had a high crime rate and the area was used as a stronghold by drug users. The Central Park project renovated the entire space and generated positive effects on the surrounding areas as well.

Direito Rio’s project started in March this year, coordinated by Antonio Maristrello Porto, developed by researchers Patrícia Regina Pinheiro Sampaio, Rômulo Silveira da Rocha Sampaio, Bianca Borges Medeiros Pavão and Harllos Arthur.

Urban parks, green and leisure areas are key elements in urban planning. Evidence shows that urban parks and green areas can positively affect many aspects of the lives of local residents. They are essential to maximize urban drainage, improve environmental conditions, mitigate heat islands and provide spaces for socializing. Therefore, they are instrumental for the principle of urban social function and the democratization of access to leisure.

Go to the website to learn more about the project.