Pengelolaan Ruang Terbuka Hijau Berbasis Partisipatif pada Lapangan Balai Desa Kecamatan Medan Helvetia Kota Medan

Abstract

Green open space (GOS) plays a vital role in supporting environmental quality and fostering social interaction within urban communities. However, the management of GOS at the Helvetia Village Square in Medan Helvetia Subdistrict faces several challenges, including low levels of community participation, limited government communication, and the absence of a community-based management institution. This study aims to analyze the forms of community participation, identify factors contributing to low engagement, and formulate participatory-based strategies for GOS management. This research employed a quantitative descriptive analysis (frequency distribution and Chi-Square test) and in-depth interviews and Focus Group Discussions (FGDs). Data were collected from 100 respondents, field observations, and relevant stakeholders. The results indicate that only 20% of residents participate, dominated by contributions in the form of labor (6%) and ideas (5%), while 80% do not participate due to weak government outreach, poorly maintained facilities, and the absence of a community management forum. The study identifies three key strategies: (1) organizing routine cleaning and maintenance activities as environmental education; (2) providing collaborative spaces for arts, culture, and community education; and (3) developing plant adoption programs involving residents, communities, and schools. The most feasible short-term strategy is routine community clean-up activities, as they require minimal funding, align with dominant participation patterns, and can be implemented immediately. Overall, strengthening community-based institutions and fostering multi-stakeholder collaboration are essential to achieving more inclusive and sustainable GOS management in Medan Helvetia.