JAUE2017-027: Study on Policies to Shrink Cities by Multi Agent Simulation from the View of Residents’ Quality of Life and Economic Effect

Abstract

As of 2017, various policies have been introduced to make compact cities. However, gaining the support of
citizens and the local government has proven difficult unless concrete evidence that the policy will be beneficial 
for both parties is presented. This study aims to present a compact city policy that will benefit all parties involved 
by utilizing a Multi-Agent System to simulate the quality of life (QOL) of residents and the economic effects of a 
given policy. First, Kumano-shi, Mie Prefecture was selected as the target city. Next, 6 urban reduction policies
were suggested. Based on these policies, a simulation model was constructed to predict the difference in the
residents’ QOL and the primary balance of the city per policy. Results show that policies to move residents to the
city center will be beneficial for the city. In addition, moving medical facilities and schools to the city center have 
proven to be beneficial. On the other hand, only the policy which has medical facilities and schools move to the
city center have proven to be beneficial for the residents. In conclusion, the best policy to create a win-win 
situation is to have medical facilities and schools move to the city center.