Trotoar

Trotoar is the pedestrian sidewalk or footpath along a street, separating pedestrians from vehicular traffic. Located between the street curb and adjacent property or building frontage, trotoars are intended to provide safe, continuous space for walking and accessing shops, transit, and facilities. They are typically paved with concrete or paving stones and may include elements such as curb ramps, tactile paving for the visually impaired, lighting, and drainage to manage rainwater. In many cities, the width of a trotoar varies according to street type and planning standards but is designed to accommodate expected pedestrian traffic.

In Indonesian usage, trotoar is a standard term for sidewalks; in practice, it is sometimes crowded or encroached upon by street vendors, parked vehicles, or street furniture, reducing usable space for pedestrians. Urban planners and authorities often undertake trotoar rehabilitation or delineation projects to reclaim space. The concept aligns with broader terms like sidewalk, pavement, or promenade in other languages, and design approaches can differ by country, reflecting climate, culture, and regulatory framework.

Design considerations emphasize accessibility, safety, and maintenance. Modern trotoars incorporate features such as level paths, curb cuts, drainage, uniform paving, and clear separation from driving lanes. Challenges include maintaining smooth surfaces, removing obstacles, and enforcing prohibitions on obstruction. Effective management typically involves municipal regulations, periodic maintenance, and public awareness to preserve trotoars as safe, accessible routes for pedestrians.