The first study to make an attempt at quantifying the value of "eyes on street"—an idea most eloquently described by Jane Jacobs—offers reason to support a mix of uses, with businesses operating later in the evening.
"In June, a team of researchers released a paper, titled 'Analysis of Urban Vibrancy and Safety in Philadelphia,' that attempts to begin a quantitative analysis of Jacobsian theory by bringing together publicly available data sets related to crime, business activity and the built environment," according to an article by Jared Brey.
Three statisticians from the Wharton School at the University of Pennsylvania conducted the study, investigation "the correlations between public safety and population density, population count, zoning, business activity, and business hours."
Brey details the study's methodology and summarizes its findings. One conclusion to draw from the study: that busineses should be allowed to operate at longer hours. According to Shane Jensen, a statistics professor at Wharton, the findings are tentative but should still give planners and city officials reasons to think about the effect of businesses in a neighborhood.
FULL STORY: Philly Streets Get Test of Jane Jacobs’ “Eyes on the Street” Effect
Eyes from the Street – A Finer Filter
Evidence described here suggests that urban design for "eyes on the street" is not enough to lower crime.
Eyes from the Street: The Neighbourhood Fabric that Matters
The mantra “eyes on the street" focuses on the physical and functional traits of urban fabric but fails to explain the high crime rate of my Jacobsian neighbourhood. Time to reconsider, look for explanations, and exchange mantras for research.
New Report Challenges 'Eyes on the Street' Concept
In the fifty years since Jane Jacobs introduced the "eyes on the street" theory, it's become a commonly accepted conceit that a mix of use reduces crime. A new study calls that theory into question.
Planetizen Federal Action Tracker
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This City Will Pay You to Meet Your Neighbors
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Keeping our heads down and our language inoffensive is not the right response to the times we’re in. Solidarity and courage is.
Urban Design for Planners 1: Software Tools
This six-course series explores essential urban design concepts using open source software and equips planners with the tools they need to participate fully in the urban design process.
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Learn the tools for implementing Universal Design in planning regulations.
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