Unveiling the Challenges of Proximity: Integration of TOD and 15-Minute City Concepts in A Highly Car-dependent City

Car dependency and proximity to essential destinations in cities are closely interrelated. The sprawling nature of cities often results in longer travel distances, leading to increased travel times, traffic congestion, and higher carbon emissions. Conversely, proximity plays a vital role in reducing car dependency. Bearing this in mind, new urban models have emerged as potential solutions to address these challenges and some major cities have already taken steps towards the negative impacts of car dependency. However, in many other cities, urban and transport planning still operates within isolated frameworks and failing to adopt these integrated approaches. This research is seeking answers to understand the possible challenges to implementing proximity-centered concepts in areas plagued by inefficient public transport and traffic congestion, as Palermoin this case study, by integrating the 15-Minute City Concept and TOD concepts. In order to achieve this aim, the research looks for answers to the following questions; (i) How compatible are 15-Minute City and TOD concepts regarding their principles and measurement indicators, (ii) How this integration could be systematically applied in a car-centered urban context, and (iii) Does this integration could help to identify areas to promote urban planning strategies by analyzing the state and weaknesses of the built environment, including accessibility to services and walkability. The objective of this study is to determine the socioeconomic characteristics of the area, assess the existing built environment in terms of service accessibility and walkability, and identify suitable areas for urban planning strategies. The paper is organized into five sections, encompassing the theoretical framework, a detailed description of the case study, and a methodology section that elucidates the indicators employed for the analysis. In the concluding part of the paper, we present the analysis findings and provide a critical overview of the potential of this approach for future research endeavors.