Title:
STREET VENDOR SPACE IN LAPANGAN MERDEKA, PEMATANGSIANTAR

Authors:
Marisa Kristin Caronina Sitepu, Morida Siagian and Dwira Nirfalini Aulia

Abstract:
The existence of street vendors in public open spaces affects the character of space utilization and the dynamics of urban activities. This study aims to analyze the characteristics and patterns of street vendor space utilization in Pematangsiantar Merdeka Square based on variations in observation time on weekdays, weekends, and holidays. The research uses quantitative descriptive methods through field observation, spatial mapping, and documentation. The results of the study show that the pattern of street vendor space utilization is dynamic and changes according to the intensity of community activities. During the day, trade activities expand to utilize road corridors, pedestrian paths, areas around public facilities, and open spaces in the interior of the area. Meanwhile, at night, street vendor activities are more concentrated in corridors that have better accessibility, visibility, and lighting. The distribution pattern of street vendors forms a combination of linear and grouping patterns that are influenced by the characteristics of the space and the level of activity of the users of the area. The findings of the study show that the use of space by street vendors is a form of adaptation to the dynamics of public space use, so that area management needs to consider the balance between informal economic activities and the main functions of public open space.

Keywords:
Street Vendors, Space Utilization, Distribution Patterns, Public Open Spaces, Social Gatherings

DOI:
https://doi.org/10.37500/IJESSR.2026.9501

Date of Publication: 06-09-2026