Experimental Urban Planning: Tensions Behind the Proliferation of Urban Laboratories in Latin America

Keywords: experiments, urban laboratories, urban planning, urban governance, Latin America
Abstract Type: Virtual Paper Abstract

Abstract

Inspired by larger global trends in experimental governance, knowledge co-production, and policy innovation, urban laboratories (also known as urban labs) are gaining popularity in cities around the world as spaces to experiment with urban planning. In this research, we analyze the relationship between urban planning and urban labs in Latin American cities. Based on a review of different Latin American urban labs and over 30 semi-structured interviews, we trace their origins and recent uptake in the region and identify two tensions behind their proliferation: 1) that their temporary and informal character promotes new approaches and ways of thinking, but also limits their institutionalization and long-term impact, and 2) that their emphasis on international best practices and hiring “trendy urbanists” limits their capacity to address the needs of vulnerable populations. We conclude by discussing how the tensions behind urban labs in Latin America reflect larger challenges to realize the transformative potential of experimental approaches to urban planning.