Spatial Analysis and WebGIS Visualization of Building Massing in the Prapatan Coastal Area: A Case Study for Waterfront City Development in Balikpapan

The Prapatan coastal area, located along Jalan Jenderal Sudirman in Kelurahan Prapatan, Balikpapan City, is an area of significant urban and environmental potential, particularly in the context of waterfront city development. This area is strategically positioned as an environmental service centre within the city's broader spatial structure plan, which identifies it as a key region for coastal development. Given the growing pressures on Prapatan Beach, particularly in light of the anticipated urban congestion due to the city's role as a buffer for Indonesia's new capital (IKN), there is a need for comprehensive planning to manage urban expansion and preserve the coastal ecosystem. This study employs a combined approach, integrating the Analytic Hierarchy Process (AHP) and Geographic Information System (GIS) analysis, to assess land suitability for waterfront development. The results of this analysis are then visualized through a WebGIS platform, enabling dynamic mapping of the area's environmental and spatial characteristics. The spatial analysis provides a framework for informed decision-making, highlighting areas with the greatest potential for sustainable development while addressing the challenges posed by urbanisation, environmental preservation, and infrastructure development. Ultimately, the research aims to contribute to the strategic planning of the coastal area, ensuring alignment with regional spatial policies and fostering the sustainable development of Balikpapan as a model waterfront city. The proposed spatial development concepts offer insights for future planning processes, assisting in the identification of potential risks and opportunities.