The Relationships between Developed Town Areas by Utilizing ICT and the Neighboring Regions:

A Case Study of Tsunashima Smart Town in Yokohama

Abstract

　This study aims to examine the possibility of relationships between Smart Town and its neighboring region, through the case of Tsunashima in Yokohama. This study will focus on Smart Town, that is - town development in urbanized area made possible through cutting-edge technology and will consider the relationships based on differences in urban renewal. The results of questionnaires and interviews addressed to old and new residents in Tsunashima have been used as data.

　The findings of this research revealed the following. First, old residents regarded Smart Town as a different region and were not sure of the harmonization of Smart Town with its neighboring regions. Second, new residents thought that Smart Town areas will be able to relate with neighboring regions, centered on the large commercial complex at the Smart Town. On the other hand, old residents think that the connection between both regions may materialize because of the neighborhood association. Third, old residents want Smart Town to give back electric power interchange to the neighboring regions during power outage at the time of disaster. The results of this study indicates that it is important to consider old residents’ opinions, and the necessity of sharing in the region, like in the case of electric power interchange or shared bicycles.