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Abstract： |
This paper examines the development and planning of shopping centers in the Twin Cities （Minneapolist-St.Paul Metropolitan Area）, one of the largest metropolitan areas in the midwest of the United States. It reviews the history of shopping centers in the Twin Cities, introduces current development （including types and distribution）, and discuss future challenges. The planning of shopping centers is closely related to urban governance. Like many other large metropolitan areas in the country, the Twin Cities has a fragmented and decentralized urban governance structure. Cities and communities within the metropolitan area are both independent and cooperative. Some organizations including the Metropolitan Council are in charge of planning and coordinating the development of the entire metro area. When discussing shopping center planning, the paper first introduces planning processes, major planning players and sources of investments; it then analyzes the influences of public participation, urban planning （especially urban land use planning and transportation planning） and regional economic policies on shopping center development. Finally, the impacts of shopping center development on urban population distribution and urban transportation are also discussed. |
