Effect Of Public Space On Residential Mobility - Research Paper Example

Effect Of Public Space On Residential Mobility 1. Introduction Progress in the economic and social status of a neighborhood is highly reliant on the amenities available for residents of the region. Public spaces are such amenities. Public spaces are established for the use by the general public. They are designed to be used for various activities such as civil and commercial activities.Public spaces also act as socialization platforms. The different uses of public spaces by individuals with different characteristics, and hence unique usesthese scarce resources, may lead to conflicts. This conflict may be solved by the public administration or by the users who may opt not to use the facility. Excluded users may opt to relocate to areas where they may comfortably use public spaces without any form of restriction or opposition. Public administrations have in their mandate an obligation to improve welfare condition of their jurisdictions. One of the ways to achieve this objective is through attraction of investors or wealthy residents who are capable of increasing demand conditions in regional markets due to their high propensities to consume. Development of public spaces may aid in attaining this strategic goal. In this case, this effort is a branding strategy. These acts are sometimes aimed at preventing socio-economic decline or physical degradation of a town, city or neighborhood. Either way, public spaces leads to betterment of living conditions through availability of cultural or leisure infrastructures. Public spaces lead to Rehabilitation, revitalization and restoration of neighborhoods. With this, gentrifiers are attracted to these regions. Gentrifiers have different uses of public spaces compared to residents. They appropriate the public spaces as extensions of their dwellings. New resident try to exclude public space uses and representations of initial residents since they differ with theirs. Initial residentsreact to this exclusion since they feel judged. They therefore retreat to their private sphere. They may also initiate some resistance to thischange causing a conflict. This reactions lead to reduction in the level of socialization among initial users hence, they no longer feel welcomed or at home as they were initially. They may therefore opt to change their residential location and hence, residential mobility. The main objective of this paper is to determine the dynamics involved in public spaces influencing residential mobility. In prose the aim of the research is to bring out the effect and co-occurrence links amongst revitalizing efforts on public space and decisions about residential changes by households. The hypothesis is that “changes in the use of public spaces,by new residents' prolongation of their homes into these public spaces, and the self-restraining in the private sphere by the older residents, result into an increasing discontent of the initial residents in their daily lives leading to a decision to relocate.”To facilitate verification or rejection of this hypothesis, two case studies will be used. The paper will critically analyze concepts such as; residential mobility and public space. 2. Methodology This research paper looks into the effects of developing and revitalizing public place on residential-mobility decisions. The hypothesis of this research is stated as: Changes in the use of public spaces,by new residents' prolongation of their homes into these public spaces, and the self-restraining in the private sphere by the older residents, result into an increasing discontent of the initial residents in their daily lives leading to a decision to relocate.Two case studies from different cities around the world will be used to research and analyze this phenomenon. Secondary data will be employed in exploration of concepts phenomena which may include, but not restricted to; residential mobility stimuli, gentrification and public space. Critical discussion and analysis of such concepts will be of value in attaining the objective of this research. Research Design This investigation heavily employs investigative, critical and analytical methods of research. At different stages, descriptive methods may be employed in order to describe the nature of a phenomenon. In regards to the approach of the study, both qualitative and quantitative approaches will be relied on.This study employs these two approaches so as to overcome the demerits of exclusively using one of the two approaches. The quantitative approach will focus on obtained numerical findings where relevant. This may include population densities and area coverage of towns or public spaces. Qualitative approach of the study will focus on observations, personal accounts, description and individual insights of the researcher or source of information. Methodology of the Study and Source of Data This study will utilizetwo case studies as its methodology. The paper will also be based on literature review and secondary data. Works of other researchers, government policy documents (such as; Sessional Papers, Economic Surveys and Survey reports) and documents published by international and local organizations will be employed in the both analysis and conceptual framework of the research. Null Hypothesis Changes in the use of public spaces,by new residents' prolongation of their homes into these public spaces, and the self-restraining into the private sphere by the older residents, result into an increasing discontent of the initial residents in their daily lives leading to a decision to relocate. Alternative Hypotheses A. Changes in the use of public spaces, by new residents' prolongation of their homes into these public spaces, and the self-restraining into the private sphere by the older residents, do not result into an increasing discontent of the initial residents in their daily lives leading to a decision to relocate. B. Changes in the use of public spaces, by new residents' prolongation of their homes into these public spaces, and the self-restraining into the private sphere by the older residents,result into an increasing discontent of the initial residents in their daily lives but do notlead to a decision to relocate. C. Changes in the use of public spaces, by new residents' prolongation of their homes into these public spaces, and the self-restraining into the private sphere by the older residents, do not result into an increasing discontent of the initial residents in their daily lives and hence, do not lead to a decision to relocate. Sampling Technique Case studies will be selected from two cities in different parts of the world. This will ensure that the results of this investigation are credible. Case studies focus on La Condesa in Mexico City, Mexico (Southern North America) and Casc Antic in Barcelona, Spain (Europe). 3. Contextualization Push-factor on Residential Mobility: Gentrification A good number of studies have been carried out regarding the physical and social transformations that make up the gentrification process. Ruth Glass first identified the gentrification process in the 60’s. It was later witnessed in North-America and Europe. In some cases such as the Philadelphia’s Society Hill project, the government contributes to the gentrification process. The state may also hinder such a process through actions such as controlled rents. Gentrification is defined differently by different scholars. Of substantial importance is that the poor and middle class residents are usually the victims of gentrification.However, the wealthy class of residents may at times push poor and middle income earners into relocation. This however happens with dilapidation and degradation of public spaces (Madanipour, 2003). Areas which experience gentrification have distinct characteristics which accelerate residential mobility. Household of gentrifiers mainly consist of small families. They have a higher than average education level and their income is also higher than average. These characteristics represent the unique demographic and economic status of the gentrifiers who concentrate more on work and leisure than on family. Gentrification mainly occurs in central business districts of cities. This is because of the special characteristic of cities attributed to economic dynamism (Kearns & Parkinson, 2001). The economic conditions in cities can be termed as quaternary activities. Economic dynamism of cities is a great factor which leads to gentrification in the nearby residential areas which in turn affect the architecture and qualities of these cities.Presence of leisure, educational, and cultural facilities leads to attraction of gentrifiers. Therefore,availability ofworkplace and leisure facilities and their proximity satisfies expectations, residential needs and aspirations of gentrifiers (new residents with a different lifestyle from that of traditional middle class suburban residents). Social and economic transformations associated with gentrification may act as push factors in determining decisions regarding residential mobility by long-time residents. This group may also be called initials in this study. The initials experience fear of forceful eviction from their residential location(Zukin, 1995). They may also be forced to relocate by increasing real estate prices due to the gentrification process. Many studies do not look into dissatisfaction of the initials by the social and physical transformations. Due to arrival of the new residents, initials may be force to change their dwelling locations because of the change in the surrounding’ssocio-professional characteristics and lifestyle (Jimenez-Dominguez, 2007).Departure by initials form their locations further lead to acceleration of the gentrification process in the neighborhoods. 4. Analysis Case Studies A. Casc Antic in Barcelona, Spain Among the cities of the world, Barcelona is a popular city.Barcelona can be termed to be a ‘street city.’ The streets of this city and the urban surrounding are used for demonstrations and revolt. Even with this, residents of Barcelona maintain touch with the unique aspects of their city such as; quieter corners of respite, places of gathering, promenades and its monuments (Porras, 2001). One of the 4 neighborhoods of Ciutat Vella (historic center of Barcelona) is Casc Antic. Case Antic was estimated to have a population of 88,793 in 2002. It covers an area of 4.54 kilometers squared. From as early as the medieval period, Casc Antic is mainly characterized by high population and building densities. Its street is quite narrow. Between the year 1950 and 1968, this historic center experienced massive physical degradation. The reason behind this degradation is the high rate of immigration form different regions of Spain and also the world. Establishment of rent controls caused the residential property market not to respond to changes in demand for housing. Owners of this building were no longer able to meet cost of renovating and maintain this building. This led to massive degradation of the building and hence, complaint arose from residents about substandard housing, high rates if crime, lack of public spaces and poor living conditions (Moser, 2002). Complains of physical and social degradation of this area were looked into by the public administration which responded by creating the Urban Public Space project. The city witness great renovations and creation of new public spaces. The project was viewed as an example to many governments of the world. It involved different types of space such as parks, plazas and streets. It also included different levels of sizes and control through programming. According to different research, this led to increased satisfaction of Barcelona’s residents. The revitalization and developments are still in progress. The public administration formulated the Plà Estrategic 2000 in the year 2000. This strategy it aimed at bringing Barcelona to comparable levels with other major cities of modern Europe. The old fabric of Ciutat Vella is being regenerated by formation of better transit means, architectural redevelopment of heritage buildings’ façades, cultural and leisure infrastructures and most importantly public spaces (Moser, 2002). B. La Condesa in Mexico City, Mexico La Condesa neighborhood was developedin the early years of the 20th century. The location was an area designates for sports for wealthy aristocrats before the development. The area around this region was initially well planned leaving plenty of green space(Carpenter & LEES, 2003). Due to the fast economic growth of this area, it was presented as one of the most vital art deco neighborhoods in the world by local investors. This areas characteristic has made it one of the most frequently visited neighborhood in the world for both pleasure and business. Between the 1950s and 1960s,modernization of the region resulted into degradation that was more social than physical. The existing urban fabric was also fractured by new transport infrastructure which led to traffic jams and pollution of the environment. Creation of the metro and opening of 2 stations within the neighborhood gave rise to further negative effects. Soon after, microbuses began to serve the public through the stations(Carpenter & LEES, 2003). More and more poor populations got increased access to this area. This new population was blamed for the reduced security in the neighborhood, increase in illicit activities within public spaces and degradation, both social and physical, of these public spaces. The close-knit community aspect remained constant. The Lido theatre, which was an important institution for the locals, was closedin the late 90’s. This theater was one of the largest in Mexico City. After remaining vacant for several years, this abandoned building and its lot attracted squatters and gave rise to increased illegal activities within this premise. In the year 2003, the federal government of Mexico decide to give pack this public space to the residents by creation of the Mexico City’s largest library. With this, this region now houses many intellectuals and Mexican artists and attract large business investments(Carpenter & LEES, 2003). Case Studies’ Analysis The case studyabout Casc Antic in Barcelona, Spain, it is verifiable that the residential mobility process was instigated by public authorities. This area was perceived as a region of concentration of poverty. There were also major social problem affecting this densely populated urban area. The public administration of this area had in their objectives an aim to transform this area to an attraction site for wealthy residents and tourist. This would boost the social and economic indicators of the area (Dieleman, 2001). This objective was deliberately achieved through deliberate gentrification of the initial resident who could no longer afford the rising cost of living attributed to changes in their public environment. RegardingLa Condesa in Mexico City, Mexico, the new institution attracted and still attracts users from the city and its neighboring environs. The heightened popularity of this region has been attracting large scaleinvestments aimed at taking advantage of the opportunities created by the potential clientele. Small shops began to close down because of the increase in real estate prices and rent. These prices became manageable by large investments which are the most likely cause of the pushing-away feeling to small business. Sud-Ouest Borough and its close neighborhood once provided housing for many Mexican artists and intellectuals and wereconsidered as the Soho of Mexico (London& Palen, 2008). Major Causes of Residential Mobility Households make voluntary decisions about relocation mainlydue to; the environment, household characteristics or local conditions. Household characteristics may be categorized into four; Socio-professional characteristic, life cycle degrees, lifestyle and ethno-cultural attribute. These have major influence relocation decisions (London &Palen, 2008). The environment bordering a household’s residence can also cause relocation if there is substantial change in the environment without a proportionate change in the household’s preferences or characteristics. Also, a change in a household’s characteristics without a matching change in the characteristics of their neighborhood’s environ may lead to relocation of the household to a more conforming area.Relocation decisions may be influenced by local conditions that are exogenous to a household. Local conditions are factors such as; include credit markets, housing as well as the economic statusin an urban residential region (Kelly & Odubar, 2005). Public Spaces and Residential Mobility Investors, wealthy residents and touristsare highly demanded by public administrations of various neighborhoods. Public spaces may be developed or improved with an aim of rebranding it to attract this group capable of boosting the socio-economic status of an area. This branding exercise may lead toan exclusion-effect affecting the minority from public places (Dieleman, 2001). Such exclusions may be attributed to restriction of uses, due to change in use by new residents, of public places. The minority groups (who are mostly the initials) of the locality stop viewing the public space as part of their own household environment due to the change in public space usage. The alienation feeling makes the initials retract to their private household spheres. They can therefore no longer socialize with their initial users of the public spaces and this lead to an alienation feeling which directly affect relocation decision making (Kelly & Odubar, 2005). The initial users’ virtual exclusion frompublic spacesrestricts they level of socialization with the new users (incoming households) and also themselves since they retract into their private spheres. They therefore end up not appreciating the similarities and differences they may have with new entrants and themselves. By this, public spaces lead to gentrification of neighborhoods as concluded by Kelly & Odubar(2005). The gentrification process may at time be accelerated by counter-action of initial residents. These actions may either threaten new entry by certain populations into certain urban areas. Initials may also invest in public spaces (or promote certain uses of public space) to defend their territory by excluding new comers in ‘their’ residence. Initials may opt to abandon these public spaces and make relocation decisionsabout moving into other environments which matchwith their characteristics and public space usage. 5. Conclusion The null hypothesis is true. From the concepts, case studies and the analysis above, the alternative hypotheses are therefore void. This research shows that public spaces are a part of the home as elongations of the dwelling. There is need for equitable appropriation of public spaces according to socio-economic status residents. Without such equity, entry of new residents in a neighborhood is likely to have a negative impact in the lives of the initials. This is because the new population has different lifestyle from that of the initial population. The resulting dissatisfaction on uses of public spaces and cohabitation modes by initial residents becomes a general dissatisfaction in the living environment. Such phenomenon is likely to lead to residential mobility. This study’s rationale of investigating the physical and social transformation resulting from investment in public spaces, and the extension of the home into public spaces, and their impacts on residential mobility comes in handy to policy makers and planners in urban areas. This is because substantial studies have only focused on factors of gentrification such as; economic factors, population factors and physico-spatial factors. It is important for public administration to factor in socio-residential dynamics associated with usage of public spaces before they embark on revitalization and development strategies which target public spaces. Factors which public administration need to focus while planning or after completion of a public space project include;the environment, household characteristics or local conditions. This is because the above three factors are major causes of residential mobility within urban neighborhoods. References Carpenter, J. & LEES, L. 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