Objective: To identify the perception of individuals who frequent public open spaces regarding social distancing, the use of public spaces, and the investment of public authorities in these spaces during the pandemic period. Methodology: Six public open spaces were selected from two medium-sized cities in the interior of São Paulo, Araraquara and São Carlos. The public spaces were chosen based on criteria of multiple uses, territorial distribution and income. To achieve the objectives, the Perception Questionnaire method was employed. Twenty questionnaires were administered in each space, totaling 120 respondents per city, and 240 questionnaires were conducted for the entire research. Originality/Relevance: The work aimed to fill a gap in knowledge, relating to the understanding of processes carried out in public spaces during the pandemic, from the perspective of the users of these spaces and also from the standpoint of public administration, fostering discussions on new principles and planning and management tools for these spaces. Results: The results indicated an increase in the attendance of public open spaces and their appreciation by the population during the period of greater flexibility in the sanitary protocols imposed by the pandemic. There was also a perception of a decrease in care and more effective public actions. The study suggests the creation of programs and socio-cultural initiatives to enhance community engagement and a sense of belonging. Social contributions/for management: This study aimed to deepen knowledge and provide evidence to support the formulation of guidelines, protocols, and policies for public open spaces during and after the pandemic, in conjunction with public health and urban planning issues.
Peres et al. (Mon,) studied this question.