20-minute urban communities on the rise post-pandemic 

The COVID-19 crisis will result in a greater focus on decentralization and the growth of the "20-minute community" in tomorrow's cities.   

Raymond Fang, a senior associate in Goodwin’s real estate industry group and proptech practice, says that there is a new demand for improved local amenities in cities, including office spaces and increased green space for physical and mental health, which is changing how city-life is perceived. Prior to the pandemic, says Fang, cities such as Paris and Melbourne were already adopting a more local philosophy to promote a greater feeling of community among their populations. The mayor of Paris unveiled a “15 minute city” plan in February 2020, while Melbourne has had a “20-minute-neighbourhood” plan in place for some time.