CONCLUSION
Significance for other cities
The Malecón will experience change due to both environmental degradation, and new economic policies in the country. While it’s difficult for many Cuban scholars to imagine the success of a large adaptation effort after such a long period of stagnation, my research leads me to believe that change is imminent. We must expand our understanding of social life functions on the Malecón and use that understanding to shape future adaptation efforts.
While the recommendations developed for the future adaptation of the Malecón Habanero are specific and unique to its local context, the tools used to build the recommendations are applicable to other social life research studies.
The Malecón is not just a physical structure. After spending time there, you discover that there are intricate social structures and meanings embedded in the nuances of local context that live along the wall. These are worth preserving, and a tool like the Social Life Performance Matrix can ensure that they are considered and evaluated in future adaptation plans.
Coastal cities around the world are on the verge of making important climate change adaptation decisions for their regions. The Social Life Performance Matrix tools can reveal the local social life of a place, and this understanding can guide future design.
By documenting the social vibrancy that exists along the wall today, recommendations can then be made to ensure that the Malecón continues to provide residents and visitors with a lively public space even after it is redeveloped.
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