The 15-minute city model coming soon to cities near you
This mindset is nothing new and had been advocated by urban planners to better address common city concerns such as traffic and pollution, among others. But it gained traction in several cities worldwide during this pandemic for the simple reason that people, locked in their homes, were forced to explore and depend more on their communities.
Iwas invited last week to speak before a forum on the state of transport and mobility in these times. Rather than discuss relevant transport models or required travel protocols, I thought it best to share a mobility mindset that I believe is most suitable in this pandemic and thereafter. This is the “15-minute city” model, which, in its simplest form, is securing most of what you need within 15 minutes of walking or biking from your residence. This means the school your kids go to, the market for your essentials, the hospital or place of recreation, and yes, hopefully, your employment, would be just 15 minutes from your home. This is more than just about mobility. This is a paradigm shift in the way we live in our cities.
This mindset is nothing new and had been advocated by urban planners to better address common city concerns such as traffic and pollution, among others. But it gained traction in several cities worldwide during this pandemic for the simple reason that people, locked in their homes, were forced to explore and depend more on their communities. And we hope to carry this over to post pandemic normalcy.
What are the benefits of the “15-minute city”?
A healthier environment and populace. Since the “15-minute city” lessens the need for motorized vehicles, this translates into lesser carbon emissions and therefore a healthier environment and populace. And also,
lesser public spending for illnesses, where funds can be used for other priorities.
A cheaper urban renewal model that is faster to achieve. With less demand for cars, spaces that are otherwise needed for roads and parking can be converted into exclusive walkways, bike lanes, parks and other recreation facilities. No need for the big-ticket infrastructure that cost so much.
A more sustainable economy. The “15-minute city” is more sustainable as it supports mainly community commerce and entrepreneurship, which are the building blocks of any economy. Money flows and stays within.
Pandemic proof. Knowing that we have not seen the last of such pandemics, it is better that we come in prepared. A “15-minute city” can be better managed. It can be contained, locked down when needed. Infections are easier to trace; its spread better controlled. Distribution of goods and services, including the coming vaccine will be more efficient. If you talk about resiliency, then this is it.
One might say that the 15-minute city model is easier said and done. Not really. But no amount spent nor infrastructure built will guarantee its success. This is a paradigm shift. Yes, the government will need to do their part. But its success lies with us, the private individuals.
How can we make the “15-minute city” happen?
The government. Governments can better manage economies that take care of itself in smaller units. And governments can help with the necessary policies such as tax breaks, proper land use, small business incentives and loans, as well as local infrastructure support and utilities such as telecommunications facilities, crucial to ensuring the thriving of a local economy.
The private sector. Big businesses need to incorporate such mindset in their DNA. Continue and, in fact, require work-from-home of their employees. Pursue local hires in their branches. Create pockets of business centers rather than business districts. Re-centralize rather than de-centralize.
Us. And yes, it begins with us. Think local. Patronize the neighborhood market, barbershop, and the school for your kids. The nearer, the better. The selection or quality of goods and services near you may not be as great. Not yet. But start with what is available. Supporting your community will give it a better chance to grow and adjust to what you need. Or—adjust to what is there. Either way, your community will have a better chance to be sustainable.
Indeed, the 15-minute city mindset is our long-term pivot as we live and leave this pandemic. It will help attain the quality of life we long to have, which we even could not achieve in pre- Covid times. It may be then the only beneficial take away that we can derive from this pandemic.