Diversity and density of urban functions in station areas. (September 2021)

• Record Type: Journal Article
• Authors: Kumakoshi, Yusuke; Koizumi, Hideki; Yoshimura, Yuji
• Is Part Of: Computers, environment and urban systems. Volume 89(2021)
• Publication Date: 2021-09
• Subjects: Diversity -- Density -- Station area -- Urban function -- Tokyo; City planning -- Data processing -- Periodicals; Regional planning -- Data processing -- Periodicals; 303.4834
• DOI: 10.1016/j.compenvurbsys.2021.101679
• Languages: English
• ISSNs: 0198-9715

Abstract

Abstract: The diversity and density of urban functions have been known to affect urban vibrancy positively, but the relation between the two has not been empirically examined; if high density is associated with low diversity in an area, its vibrancy may not increase. To obtain a better understanding of the metabolism of cities and directions for urban planning interventions, this paper offers empirical evidence on the association between the diversity and density of urban functions in the Tokyo Metropolitan Area, using a robust density index that was determined via a Monte Carlo simulation. By conducting association analyses, it was found that highly dense station areas tended to display low diversity at multiple scales. Further investigation indicated that this negative correlation was owing to different spatial characteristics of functions and complementary functioning among highly accessible station areas. This paper argues for considering both diversity and density in urban planning to make station areas vibrant and resilient. Highlights: Relation between diversity and density of urban functions in station areas is studied. Monte Carlo simulation is performed to validate the use of diversity indices and provide theoretical baselines. Urban functions' diversity negatively correlated with the density around large-scale stations in the Tokyo Metropolitan Area. The findings encourage urban planners to monitor both diversity and density of urban functions.