The study of connectivity at Jalan Slamet Riyadi, Surakarta using the space syntax analysis

Abstract

Jalan (street) Slamet Riyadi in Surakarta has a pedestrian lane called City Walk located at the centre point of the city. Having been a decade, this pedestrian lane, however, is rarely used. The lack of connectivity may become the reason why it is abandoned. Connectivity is one of the important aspects in sustainable development. This research aims to understand the connectivity at Jalan Slamet Riyadi using the Space Syntax as the analytical instrument. The research procedures employed were (1) creating axial maps by using the Open Street Map (OSM) as the data source, (2) arranging outputs with the field observation, and (3) interpreting the street connectivity using the space syntax analysis with Depthmapx program. The findings obtained from Depthmapx indicate that Jalan Slamet Riyadi has high connectivity and is tremendously integrated. These findings indicate there may be other elements, beside connectivity, able to make the city walk more utilized; and these elements are the availability of supporting facilities and the proximity of the housing area to the activity centre. In conclusion, the research findings can be furthermore included in the policymaking related to the Surakarta City future urban planning that aims to improve connectivity and to achieve sustainable city development.