Exploring how public space design and programming can combat loneliness and strengthen communities.
Discover insights from Rx For Social Connection: Public space as a strategy to combat loneliness with the interdisciplinary research team from The Bentway, Gehl (New York) and Dalla Lana School of Public Health (University of Toronto) during a panel conversation at the University of Toronto. This report examines how thoughtful public space design and programming can foster social connection and address urban isolation.
The report brings together public space operators, urban strategists, public health practitioners, artists and designers to draw learnings from our public spaces and discover the necessary conditions for people to gather, meet, grow, and thrive. Centered around learnings from The Bentway’s 2024 Softer City season of art and events, the research shows that public spaces are critical health tools that not only promote wellbeing but reduce feelings of loneliness.
This event is co-presented with
Special thanks to:
Balsam Foundation
Manulife
City of Toronto
And all the program supporters for Softer City (Summer 2024)
