URBAN VACANT LOTS AND UNDERUTILIZED PUBLIC PROPERTIES, AND THEIR CATALYTIC POTENTIAL FOR CITIZEN SECURITY AND SOCIAL INTEGRATION IN THE DISTRICT OF VILLA EL SALVADOR - LIMA

Abstract

The research provides an integrated diagnosis of urban voids and underutilized public properties in Villa El Salvador, Lima, combining GIS mapping, surveys, and spatial analysis; 214 units were inventoried totaling 93.6 ha, with a median parcel size of 3.2 ha, reduced visibility in 59%, and high deterioration in 34%. An operational typology and a catalytic potential index weighing physical, social, and security domains are proposed. Monte Carlo validation showed an average stability of 0.88, and prioritization identified 20 properties concentrating 31% of the total area with scores between 0.78 and 0.94 and an intervention threshold of 0.75. Spatial correlation between the index and reported thefts was r = 0.46, and SAR models estimated that a 10% increase in void density predicts a 1.8% rise in property crimes. Citizen perception associates 68% of the voids with insecurity, and spontaneous use reached 12%. Intervention proposals are articulated into tactical, mixed, and permanent scenarios based on CPTED, co-management, and tactical urbanism. The research contributes methodological and operational criteria to prioritize municipal actions and design pilot evaluation programs.