A classification scheme for vacant urban lands: integrating duration, land characteristics, and survival rates. Issue 4 (2nd November 2019)

• Record Type: Journal Article
• Authors: Lee, Ryun Jung; Newman, Galen
• Is Part Of: Journal of land use science. Volume 14:Issue 4/6(2019)
• Page Start: 306
• Page End: 319
• Publication Date: 2019-11-02
• Subjects: Vacant land -- Kaplan-Meier survival analysis -- land use -- land ownership -- parcel size; Land use -- Periodicals; 333.7313
• DOI: 10.1080/1747423X.2019.1706655
• Languages: English
• ISSNs: 1747-423X

Abstract

ABSTRACT: This study develops a methodology to distinguish vacant land types and introduces a classification scheme using a citywide vacancy inventory. Using Minneapolis, MN as a study area, three land characteristics associated with vacant properties – parcel size, ownership, and land use – are examined. Kaplan-Meier survival rates are then estimated to evaluate and compare the durations of vacancy between 2005 and 2015. The results indicate that a vacant property, in general, has the lowest probability to remain vacant within its first two years after becoming vacant. Smaller-sized parcels tend to result in a longer-term vacancy; while publicly owned, industrial, institutional, and/or recreational vacancies show similar tendencies. From this analysis, this study then develops a six-category classification scheme that can be used as (1) a novel tool to inventory vacant urban lands, (2) a diagnostic tool to identify repurposing opportunities, and (3) reliable means of comparing vacant properties across localities.