Community Park Usage Behavior After the COVID-19 Pandemic: A Case Study of Benchasiri Park

Abstract

Public parks play a vital role in promoting the physical and mental health of the population, particularly in densely populated urban areas like Bangkok. The city faces challenges such as pollution, congestion, and a fast-paced lifestyle, making parks essential spaces for stress reduction and improving the quality of life. However, the COVID-19 pandemic has significantly altered people's behaviors and lifestyles. Public spaces, including parks, have had to adapt to align with the New Normal lifestyle. This study focuses on examining in community park usage behaviors after the pandemic and proposes design guidelines for parks that respond to evolving needs and behaviors, using Benjasiri Park in Bangkok as a case study. The research employed a mixed-methods approach, combining qualitative and quantitative methods. Data collection included site surveys, behavioral observations, and interviews with a diverse group of participants varying in age, occupation, and purpose of park usage. The findings revealed park usage behaviors in post-COVID-19 pandemic. Most users shifted from group activities, such as sports or recreational events, to individual or paired activities, such as sitting, walking, jogging, and using exercise equipment. These behaviors reflect users' concerns about maintaining social distancing and minimizing exposure risks. Additionally, users showed a preference for shaded areas with natural views, such as lawns and waterfront spaces, which provide cooler and more relaxing environments, particularly during midday and late afternoon. The interviews also highlighted the demand for clear safety and hygiene measures, such as the installation of handwashing stations, sensor-operated faucets, waste separation for infectious materials, and regular maintenance of facilities and equipment. Based on these findings, the study proposes recommendations for post-pandemic park design, including increasing shaded areas with natural views, distributing activity zones to reduce crowding, expanding walking and jogging paths that connect key areas within the park, and upgrading facilities to meet the needs of users in the New Normal era. These findings offer valuable insights and serve as a crucial guideline for future park design and development to promote public health and well-being in the face of evolving challenges.