The Role of Infrastructure in Shaping Soundscapes: Comparing Urban Parks and Urban Forests for a Sustainable Environment

Abstract

Urban soundscapes are crucial for reducing stress, promoting health, and enhancing noise comfort in cities. This study evaluates how infrastructure shapes the soundscape quality of two prominent urban open spaces in Banda Aceh, Indonesia: Taman Putroe Phang, an urban park, and Hutan Kota BNI Tibang, an urban forest. Data was gathered through observation, soundwalks, questionnaires, as well as field measurements and recordings taken in the morning and afternoon. Spectrogram analysis identified various sound frequencies and sources. The results show that traffic noise dominates Taman Putroe Phang, especially in areas close to major roads (Zones A and B), highlighting the impact of surrounding infrastructure on soundscape quality. In contrast, Hutan Kota BNI Tibang, with less nearby infrastructure, offers a more tranquil environment dominated by natural sounds and minimal traffic noise. These findings emphasize the critical role of soundscape considerations in infrastructure development to foster sustainable, health-promoting urban environments.