International Mega-Events and Urban Planning in the Context of Toronto
dc.contributor.advisor | Roberts, David | |
dc.contributor.author | Ayala Diaz, Kevin | en_US |
dc.date.accessioned | 2018-06-29T00:33:15Z | |
dc.date.available | 2018-06-29T00:33:15Z | |
dc.date.issued | 2017 | |
dc.date.updated | 2018-06-29T00:33:15Z | |
dc.description.abstract | This paper explores mega-events and their relationship to urban planning and public participation. Mega-events, often referred to as hallmark events, are short-term, high profile spectacles that have a massive popular appeal, a large mediated reach, and international significance (Hall, 1992; Roche, 2000). Mega-events include major fairs, festivals, expositions, such as the World Expo and significant sporting events like the Olympic games and the FIFA World Cup. For many cities, mega-events are an alluring urban strategy that “promises” tangible and intangible benefits for cities and nations (Burbank et al., 2001). These short-lived events can have tremendous influence over urban spaces, built environments, and city populations (Greenhalgh, 1988; Roche, 2003). Given their impacts, it should not be a surprise that these events have encountered various forms of resistance (Lenskyj, 2008; Cottrell, 2011; Gotham, 2016). A significant amount of this opposition focuses on the lack of accountability, transparency, and public engagement that is often seen in the various mega-event hosting processes (Kidd, 1992; Flyvbjerg, 2003; Hall, 2006). Those that oppose these events critique the undemocratic nature of decision-making processes used to bid for and plan hallmark events (Kidd, 1992; Gotham, 2011). Through this essay, I will argue why participatory planning strategies must be used for the development of inclusive decision-making processes in mega-event planning within the city of Toronto. I will argue that although public engagement and a commitment to participatory planning has seemingly been devalued in the city’s history of pursuing the hosting of a hallmark event, they are essential components for the successful and equitable bidding and planning of such events. I believe participatory planning can be used for the meaningful consideration of various public interests and the creation of a “hosting concept/vision” that works towards the advancement of varying city priorities across a wide range of local communities. When thinking of how to engage varying communities in mega-event planning processes, it is vital to consider what engagement approaches have been used in previous mega-event hosting attempts, and what future strategies are recommended for the city of Toronto. | |
dc.identifier | MESMP02758 | |
dc.identifier.citation | Major Paper, Master of Environmental Studies, Faculty of Environmental Studies, York University | |
dc.identifier.uri | http://hdl.handle.net/10315/34709 | |
dc.language.iso | en | |
dc.rights | Author owns copyright, except where explicitly noted. Please contact the author directly with licensing requests. | |
dc.subject.keywords | Urban Planning | |
dc.subject.keywords | Redevelopment | |
dc.subject.keywords | Urban Politics | |
dc.subject.keywords | Participatory Planning | |
dc.title | International Mega-Events and Urban Planning in the Context of Toronto | |
dc.type | Major Paper |