Document Type : Research Paper
Authors
Department of Urban Planning and Design, Faculty of Art and Architecture, University of Kurdistan, Sanandaj, Iran
10.22034/jsc.2025.501949.1831
Abstract
A B S T R A C T
With the growth of urbanization worldwide and the emphasis on sustainable development, converting urban streets into sidewalks has been recognized as an effective approach to improving the quality of urban life. In Iran, the importance of designing pedestrian-oriented spaces, especially in the historical and central areas of cities, has been increasingly considered because of its effects on vitality, environmental security, and the nighttime economy. This research aimed to investigate and analyze the role and importance of the components affecting nightlife on Shabrang Street to identify the factors affecting the development of nightlife in the central context. Owing to its unique historical, social, and commercial location, this street has high potential for promoting nightlife and strengthening social interactions. The research method was based on confirmatory factor analysis (CFA) using Smart PLS software. Data were collected using a questionnaire and analyzed using physical, social, functional, economic, and environmental indicators. The results showed that social dimensions (coefficient = 0.935) and functional dimensions (coefficient = 0.820) had the greatest impact on enhancing nightlife. Physical, economic, and environmental indicators with coefficients of 0.709, 0.694, and 0.678, respectively, also play an effective role. Improving urban furniture, increasing the diversity and scale of uses, improving lighting and security, and holding nighttime activities and events have been identified as key factors. This research provides valuable information for urban decision-makers and policymakers that can be used to design sustainable cities and strengthen the nightlife economy.
Extended Abstract
Introduction
In recent decades, rapid urbanization, increasing car use, and decreased vitality in public spaces have created significant challenges for Iranian cities, especially in central contexts. One of the effective solutions to respond to these challenges is to transform streets into sidewalks with multipurpose and more humane functions. Nightlife, as an emerging phenomenon in contemporary cities, plays a key role in improving vitality, security, and quality of life. Marivan's Shabrang Street, with its central location and proximity to the market and historical elements, has a high capacity to become a pedestrian crossing with nighttime function. However, obstacles such as traffic congestion and lack of infrastructure have revealed the need for feasibility studies in this field. This study aims to investigate and analyze the role and importance of the components affecting nightlife in Shabrang Streets to identify the factors affecting the development of nightlife in the central context.
Methodology
This applied research was conducted using a quantitative method. The statistical population comprised Shabrang Street users, including local residents and tourists. The sample size was determined using Cochran’s formula for an infinite population, resulting in 384 participants. Simple random sampling was employed to ensure diverse perspectives were gathered. Data were collected using a structured questionnaire containing 65 questions across five primary dimensions. The questionnaire was designed on a five-point Likert scale (ranging from "very low" to "very high") and covered indicators such as pathway quality, security, land-use diversity, and social interactions.
The reliability of the research instrument was confirmed using Cronbach’s alpha and composite reliability (CR), with values exceeding 0.7 indicating satisfactory reliability. Construct validity was assessed using average variance extracted (AVE), with values above 0.5 confirming adequate validity. Data analysis was performed using Smart PLS software. Confirmatory factor analysis (CFA) was used to examine the model's structure and evaluate relationships among indicators. Prior to analysis, the normality of the data was assessed using skewness and kurtosis indices. To enhance model fit, indicators with factor loadings below 0.4 were excluded.
Results and discussion
The results revealed that among the five primary dimensions, the social dimension had the greatest impact on the nightlife experience. Environmental security and social interactions were identified as the most critical indicators within this dimension. Providing adequate lighting, increasing nighttime social and cultural activities, and enhancing environmental safety are pivotal in attracting residents and improving street vibrancy. The findings indicate that appropriate lighting not only enhances the visual appeal of the street but also strengthens users’ sense of security. Additionally, organizing nighttime events such as cultural markets, festivals, and artistic activities significantly boosts social interactions.
The functional dimension also showed a considerable influence on nightlife. Key indicators within this dimension include the diversity and suitability of land use, quality of public services, and access to public transportation. The presence of diverse land uses, such as cafes, restaurants, and cultural and recreational centers, particularly in an area with substantial historical and tourist potential, such as Shabrang Street, can attract larger crowds and enhance nighttime vibrancy.
The physical dimension, comprising indicators such as the quality of urban furniture, pathway continuity, and route clarity, ranked as the third most influential factor. The findings emphasized that standard urban furniture, such as benches, trash bins, and water fountains strategically placed in key locations, can create a more attractive and comfortable environment for users. Continuity and legibility of pedestrian pathways also play vital roles in improving accessibility and encouraging users to spend more time in the space.
The environmental dimension highlighted the benefits of reducing vehicular traffic and encouraging the use of public transportation to mitigate air and noise pollution, thereby enhancing nightlife quality. These measures not only alleviate environmental issues but also create calmer and healthier spaces for pedestrians.
Although the economic dimension had a relatively lower impact than the other dimensions, the findings showed that strengthening the nighttime economy through the establishment of local markets and the promotion of small businesses could significantly boost the region's economic growth and enhance Marivan’s urban branding. Strategic planning to expand service sector jobs and attract tourists were additional recommendations within this dimension.
The Goodness-of-Fit (GoF) index, used to evaluate the overall model fit, yielded a value of 0.662, indicating an excellent fit. The exclusion of indicators with low factor loadings, such as lighting quality and 24-hour activities, underscores the need for targeted planning to improve these aspects.
Conclusion
The present study demonstrated that Shabrang Street in Marivan, with its prime location in the city center and proximity to historical and commercial sites, has significant potential for transformation into a vibrant nightlife hub. Improving infrastructure, enhancing security, diversifying land use, and planning cultural nighttime events are essential measures to ensure the success of this initiative. Adequate lighting design, increased urban furniture, and development of safe pedestrian pathways are fundamental prerequisites for achieving these objectives.
This study provides a practical framework for developing nightlife in similar cities across Iran and can serve as an inspiration for future urban planning initiatives aimed at sustainable development. Transforming Shabrang Street into a pedestrian pathway not only enhances the quality of urban life and promotes social interactions, but also strengthens Marivan’s nighttime economy, positioning the city as an attractive destination for tourists.
Funding
There is no funding support.
Authors’ Contribution
The authors contributed equally to the conceptualization and writing of the article. All of the authors approved the content of the manuscript and agreed on all aspects of the work declaration of competing interest none.
Conflict of Interest
The authors declared no conflict of interest.
Acknowledgments
We are grateful to all the scientific consultants of this paper.
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