The 15-minute City
15-minutes of ... : Walkable and Bikeable Cities

	Hari Srinivas
	Concept Note Series C-032

When we refer to "15-minute cities," we are generally talking about the concept of being able to access essential amenities, services, and recreational facilities within a 15-minute walk, bike ride, or public transit journey from one's residence.

The term "15 minutes" represents a rough estimate of time, emphasizing the idea that these necessary destinations should be conveniently reachable within a short travel duration. The goal is to minimize the need for long commutes and promote localized living, where residents can meet their daily needs within a compact and accessible urban environment.

The specific amenities and services encompassed within the 15-minute radius can vary but typically include facilities such as grocery stores, schools, healthcare services, parks, public transportation stops, community centers, cultural venues, and employment opportunities. The exact scope of amenities may differ based on the specific needs and priorities of each city or neighborhood implementing the 15-minute city concept. By emphasizing proximity and reducing travel times, the 15-minute city aims to enhance livability, promote sustainable transportation options, foster a sense of community, and improve residents' overall quality of life.

Here are some examples of activities that can often happen within a 15-minute radius in a well-designed 15-minute city:

1. Grocery Shopping:
   Residents can easily access a local grocery store or market to purchase their groceries within a short walk or bike ride.

2. Dining Out:
   A variety of restaurants, cafes, and eateries can be found nearby, allowing residents to enjoy meals and socialize without the need for long commutes.

3. Parks and Recreation:
   Local parks, green spaces, and recreational facilities such as sports fields, playgrounds, and fitness centers can be easily reached within a 15-minute radius, promoting an active and healthy lifestyle.

4. Education:
   Schools, colleges, and educational institutions are conveniently located within the neighborhood, ensuring that students have quick access to educational facilities.

5. Healthcare Services:
   Residents can reach medical clinics, pharmacies, and healthcare centers within a short distance for routine check-ups, consultations, and prescription needs.

6. Cultural Activities:
   Museums, art galleries, theaters, and community centers that offer cultural events, performances, and exhibitions are within easy reach, fostering a vibrant and enriched community.

7. Work and Employment:
   In a 15-minute city, residents may have access to local job opportunities, enabling them to work closer to home and reduce commuting time.

8. Public Transportation:
   Access to public transportation stops or stations within the neighborhood allows for seamless connectivity to other parts of the city, enabling residents to reach destinations further away.

9. Socializing and Meeting Places:
   Local cafes, bars, and gathering spots provide opportunities for socializing, meeting friends, and engaging in community activities.

10. Essential Services:
    Within the 15-minute radius, residents can find essential services such as banks, post offices, libraries, and convenience stores, ensuring their daily needs are met conveniently.

ANNEX: Walkability "Walkability" is a concept that refers to the degree to which an urban environment is pedestrian-friendly and supports walking as a mode of transportation. It emphasizes creating cities and neighborhoods that are designed and built with the needs and safety of pedestrians in mind, encouraging people to walk as a primary means of getting around. Here are some key aspects of walkability and its benefits for cities: Pedestrian infrastructure: Walkability involves the presence of well-designed pedestrian infrastructure, such as sidewalks, crosswalks, pedestrian-friendly intersections, footpaths, and pedestrian bridges. These elements provide safe and convenient walking routes, separated from vehicular traffic. Compact and mixed land use: Walkable cities often feature a compact and mixed land use pattern, where residential, commercial, and recreational areas are close together. This proximity reduces the need for long-distance travel, making it easier for people to reach their destinations on foot. Connectivity and accessibility: Walkable cities prioritize connectivity, ensuring that streets and pathways form a connected network. This enables pedestrians to navigate the urban environment efficiently, with short and direct routes to their destinations. Accessibility features, such as ramps and elevators, are important for people with mobility challenges. Safety and comfort: Walkability emphasizes creating safe and comfortable walking environments. This includes well-lit streets, adequate signage, traffic calming measures, and separated sidewalks from vehicular traffic. Creating spaces that are visually appealing, with landscaping, street furniture, and public art, can enhance the comfort and enjoyment of pedestrians. Health and well-being: Promoting walkability encourages physical activity and contributes to improved public health. Walking as a mode of transportation helps combat sedentary lifestyles, reduces the risk of chronic diseases, and improves mental well-being. It also reduces air pollution and carbon emissions, leading to environmental benefits. Vibrant public spaces: Walkable cities often prioritize the creation of vibrant public spaces, such as parks, plazas, and pedestrian-friendly streetscapes. These spaces provide gathering places, encourage social interactions, and contribute to a sense of community. Economic vitality: Walkability can have positive economic impacts. Walkable neighborhoods and commercial areas attract foot traffic, supporting local businesses and fostering economic activity. People tend to spend more time and money in areas that are pedestrian-friendly and offer an enjoyable walking experience. Equity and social inclusion: Walkability promotes equity and social inclusion by ensuring that walking is a viable option for people of all ages, abilities, and socio-economic backgrounds. It reduces transportation barriers, enhances access to essential services, and helps create inclusive communities. By prioritizing walkability, cities can create healthier, more sustainable, and livable urban environments, reducing dependence on cars, improving public health, fostering social connections, and enhancing the overall quality of life for residents. Examples: Copenhagen, Denmark: Copenhagen consistently ranks among the most walkable cities in the world. The city has implemented extensive pedestrian infrastructure, including wide sidewalks, dedicated cycling lanes, and pedestrian-only zones. Its compact design, mixed land use, and emphasis on cycling and pedestrian-friendly policies have created a highly walkable urban environment. Tokyo, Japan: Despite being a bustling metropolis, Tokyo offers excellent walkability due to its efficient and well-connected public transportation system, pedestrian-friendly streets, and compact urban design. Many neighborhoods feature narrow streets, abundant sidewalks, and vibrant pedestrian areas, allowing residents and visitors to easily navigate the city on foot. Barcelona, Spain: Barcelona is renowned for its walkable streets and vibrant urban life. The city has transformed numerous major roads into pedestrian-friendly boulevards, expanded sidewalks, and implemented a successful bike-sharing program. Barcelona's historic neighborhoods, such as the Gothic Quarter and El Born, are characterized by narrow streets and pedestrian plazas, creating an enjoyable and walkable experience for residents and tourists alike. These cities have made significant efforts to prioritize pedestrians, improve infrastructure, and create a pedestrian-friendly urban environment, resulting in high levels of walkability and promoting active, sustainable modes of transportation.