Speaker
Description
The concept of 15-minute cities has gained global attention as a sustainable urban planning model aimed at creating cities where residents can access essential services and amenities within a 15-minute walk or bike ride from their homes. This model emphasizes accessibility, reducing reliance on cars, and fostering more livable and inclusive urban spaces. This study explores the perceived accessibility of two districts in Ankara, Türkiye (Çankaya and Keçiören) through the lens of the 15-minute city framework. The research employs walk-along interviews as the primary methodology, engaging local residents in real-time assessments of their urban environments. This study is a part of the DUT-funded project, AccessCity4All.
The walk-along interview method involves participants in walking with the researcher through their neighborhoods while sharing their experiences and perceptions of accessibility, convenience, and safety. This approach allows for an in-depth exploration of how residents interact with their urban space, highlighting the gaps between idealized planning models and lived experiences. By focusing on Çankaya, an affluent old district with high infrastructure, and Keçiören, a more densely populated area with varying levels of new development areas, the study contrasts the accessibility of two different urban contexts within Ankara. Preliminary findings suggest that while both districts have areas that align with the 15-minute city ideal, significant challenges remain, particularly in terms of pedestrian infrastructure, safety concerns, and access to essential services in more densely populated or less-developed areas. Keçiören residents, though less educated, are pleased with their streets, having shaped them into their version of a 15-minute city. Meanwhile, Çankaya residents, who are more educated, often criticize their streets for problems like lack of cleanliness, obstructive pavements, and poor quality.
The study highlights the importance of considering local context and resident perceptions in urban planning, and it calls for a more inclusive approach to designing cities that truly prioritize accessibility for all citizens. These findings contribute to the growing discourse on sustainable urban mobility and the practical realities of implementing the 15-minute city concept in diverse urban environments.
| Keywords | Accessibility, Fair 15-Minute City, Shared Mobility, Resident Perceptions, Urban Services |
|---|---|
| Best Congress Paper Award | Yes |
