An analysis of the dimensions of urban vitality and vitality in the city of Semirom

Abstract:

Urban vitality is one of the key concepts in urban planning, referring to the quality of life in urban environments and its connection with various social, economic, physical, and cultural dimensions. This concept becomes especially important when cities face multiple challenges such as uncontrolled growth, socio-economic inequalities, and environmental problems. The main objective of this study is to analyze and evaluate the different dimensions of urban vitality in the city of Semirom. The research is applied in terms of purpose and descriptive-analytical in terms of methodology. Both library and field methods were used to collect data and analyze the relationships among different dimensions of urban vitality. The geographical scope of this study is Semirom city, and the statistical population consists of its residents. The sample size, calculated using Cochran’s formula with a 95% confidence level, was 384, but for greater accuracy, 400 samples were selected using a simple random sampling method. Data analysis was conducted at both descriptive and inferential levels, utilizing SPSS and AMOS software for statistical analysis and structural equation modeling. The findings revealed that urban vitality in Semirom is not in a favorable condition in the economic, social, physical-spatial, and service-welfare dimensions, with mean scores below average (2.08, 2.38, 2.01, and 2.40 respectively). Furthermore, structural equation modeling indicated that the physical-spatial factor, with a factor loading of 0.92, had the greatest impact on urban vitality, followed by economic and social factors. The results suggest that in the economic dimension, lack of fair access to economic opportunities and insufficient development of local markets; in the social dimension, dissatisfaction with municipal services and inadequacy of urban spaces for various age groups; and in the service-welfare dimension, the lack of desirable public spaces, green areas, and urban parking have challenged the vitality and liveliness of the city. Therefore, urban managers should particularly focus on these dimensions and work on developing social services, physical infrastructure, and economic foundations to enhance vitality and livability in Semirom.