Gathering Places: The Role of Small Businesses in Urban Community Vitality

Abstract

In this critical review we comment on two books that examine the conditions that promote community vitality in urban contexts: Death and Life of Great American Cities by Jane Jacobs, and The Great Good Place by Ray Oldenburg. Based on urban planning experiences, community life is more likely to flourish in small-block neighborhoods, with high population density and a mix of old and new buildings. In addition, those places that facilitate accidental meetings
between neighbors normally act as catalysts for integration and a sense of belonging in the community. To illustrate it,
with the case of a particularly active avenue in the city of Seville, we show the confluence of social factors and urban design in achieving high levels of community vitality. The case highlights the community value of small businesses and behavior settings.