Master plan proposal for the management of the urban natural park "Bosque de la Esperanza" in Puriscal, Costa Rica

Abstract

The loss of green spaces in cities has repercussions not only on the landscape, but also on ecosystems and the health of the people who inhabit them. Thus, the recovery of areas affected by human action has become a task for municipalities and communities, who seek alternatives such as urban natural parks, which contribute to improving the environment. In the canton of Puriscal, a municipality in Costa Rica, work is underway on the creation of a future Urban Natural Park called Bosque de la Esperanza, which corresponds to a public space for recreation and ecological restoration purposes. This article aimed to develop a master plan proposal that would have zoning and supplies in order to develop a management plan for the urban natural park "Bosque de la Esperanza" (PNUBE) in Santiago de Puriscal. The research techniques consisted of a documentary review of the history, the implementation of closed questionnaires and the consultation of several experts sampled by Delphi technique. Definitions were obtained to guide conservation, environmental literacy and recreation specifically in the park, as well as facilities to be considered and programs to be carried out. In conclusion, it is important to have green spaces that include mental health and conservation in a space, also, planning urban spaces according to people’s needs.