Third places—shared public spaces that host casual hangouts, enable chance encounters, and bring families together—facilitate social connections that improve a person’s health, sense of belonging, and access to long-term prosperity. But these spaces are declining at a time of rising loneliness in US cities and a weakened sense of well-being in communities.
To be effective, third places require local champions and community-level investment. What can local leaders do?
Developing and preserving public third places and ensuring equitable access to them are essential first steps. Researchers say targeted investments and data-informed action to improve civic infrastructure are more important than ever.
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