Urban sustainability – an open space extension of the urban cable car in Ciudad Bolívar

The inauguration of the urban cable car TransMiCable in 2018 in Ciudad Bolívar, a locality in the south of Bogotá, represents a milestone for its residents. The infrastructure project resulted in reduced travel times, improved accessibility and enhanced integration of the residents with the city centre. However, despite the many advantages brought by the cable car, there are still specific challenges in the area. The locality suffers from criminality, pollution and a lack of high-quality public spaces and social facilities. Furthermore, the surrounding areas are difficult to build upon due to a complex ecological structure and steep, erosion-prone soils, which pose barriers in daily life. This situation leads to significant ecological and social conflicts. With the improved accessibility provided by the cable car it is possible to further strengthen urban development. The local challenges need to be addressed and the potentials of the area should be harnessed. Sustainable solutions are required, which correspond to the individual needs of the residents while promoting a sustainable way of life.

Based on a comprehensive analysis of urban reference projects a matrix was developed, encompassing the key pillars of social, economic and ecological sustainability. This matrix served as the basis for an urban design concept, aiming to upgrade and enhance the undeveloped areas, making them more appealing. Extensive collaboration was conducted with the people of Ciudad Bolívar during this field research, providing them with a voice and incorporating their desires and needs into the design. The result is an urban design presented at two scales, envisioning the enhancement of the public spaces and striking a balance between social, economic and ecological sustainability, facilitating harmonious co-existence between humans and nature. This approach was meticulously developed and presented in detail within the pilot project of the Active Training Centre.