Environmental Quality Assessment of Urban Open Spaces in Relation to Users’ Perceived Environmental Security (Case Study: Eram Boulevard, Hamedan)

Document Type : Independent Research Articles

Authors

1 M.A. Student in Urban Design, Department of Urbanism, Faculty of Art and Architecture, Bu-Ali Sina University, Hamedan, Iran

2 Professor, Department of Urbanism, Faculty of Art and Architecture, Bu-Ali Sina University, Hamedan, Iran

Abstract

The present study aimed to examine the role of environmental quality in improving users’ security within the context of Eram Boulevard in Hamedan. The research employed a descriptive–analytical design with a mixed-methods approach (quantitative–qualitative). Quantitative data were collected through a structured questionnaire administered to 384 users, while qualitative data were obtained via field observations and semi-structured interviews. The validity and reliability of the instruments were confirmed through expert judgment and Cronbach’s alpha (0.87). Data analysis was conducted using statistical tests and structural equation modeling. The findings indicated a positive and significant relationship between environmental quality and perceived security. Among the indicators, the night-time economy had the most substantial impact; the presence of night-time activities and adequate lighting contributed to making public spaces safer for users. Furthermore, significant differences were observed based on gender and educational level, highlighting the greater sensitivity of women and older individuals to the physical and managerial quality of spaces. Indicators such as pavement quality, sidewalk width, environmental cleanliness, gathering spaces, and smart technologies directly reinforced users’ sense of safety. The qualitative analysis further revealed that users’ experiences were strongly influenced by factors such as lighting design, social presence at night, regular maintenance, and the combination of formal and informal surveillance. These findings suggest that environmental security is not merely the outcome of police control but is strongly dependent on the quality of design and management of public spaces. In other words, when urban spaces are aesthetically pleasing, well-lit, clean, and lively, the sense of security is significantly strengthened. Therefore, it can be concluded that attention to principles such as night-time design, pedestrian-oriented planning, activation of social spaces, and provision for vulnerable groups can foster sustainable security and strengthen public trust in urban environments.

Keywords

Main Subjects

References

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Urban Structure and Function Studies
Volume 13, Issue 2
June 2026
Pages 27-47

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History

  • Receive Date: 05 June 2025
  • Revise Date: 06 September 2025
  • Accept Date: 20 January 2026

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