Community Hubs as Essential Infrastructure in Proximity-Based Urban Design Addressing Structural Barriers to Mental Health

Abstract

 Proximity-based models, such as the 15-minute city and microcities, are gaining attention for improving population health by increasing access to services, reducing travel burdens, and supporting walkability. Prior research had proposed community hubs as a means of addressing social determinants of health in neighborhoods. Although each contributes to more equitable urban environments, combined implications remain largely underexamined. Evidence suggests walkability, accessible green spaces, and social infrastructure are associated with greater subjective wellbeing, social cohesion, and perceived belonging. Whereas community hubs promote informal support and necessary connection to services. Together these approaches ensure the equitable distribution of resources centralized to serve the greatest number of people. Few studies examine community hubs and microcities as integrated interventions that support mental health in urban settings. Existing research presents a bias toward affluent communities, despite urban stressors disproportionately affecting low-income neighborhoods. Integrating community hubs to centralize resources can address the structural disadvantages persisting many cities. Through centralizing communal aid, organizations can more effectively reach the community to promote improved accessibility to necessary services and support.