Local Governance for Sustainable Urban Futures: Comparing 15-Minute City Models in Milan and Bologna

As European cities confront pressing global challenges, local governments are increasingly called to implement innovative strategies that align with sustainability goals, such as those outlined in the United Nations' 2030 Agenda. This paper investigates the potential of the “15-minute city” model as a framework for sustainable urban planning and inclusive governance in the Italian cities of Milan and Bologna. Drawing on Goal 11 of the 2030 Agenda—sustainable cities and communities—this study adopts a comparative approach to examine the design, implementation, and outcomes of proximity-based urban policies in these two metropolitan areas. The paper focuses on two frontrunners in implementing the 15-minute model in Italy, with the idea of highlighting possible lessons for other cases. The comparative analysis is enriched by the application of two complementary methodologies: Social Network Analysis (SNA) and discourse analysis. SNA is employed to map and analyze the networks of actors involved in the policy design and implementation processes, revealing the dynamics of collaboration, influence, and contestation among local governments, private sector actors, and community organizations. This approach highlights the structural differences and governance capacities of the two cities in fostering proximity-based urban transformation. First, a textual examination of urban planning instruments is conducted, including municipal strategic plans (e.g. Urban and Metropolitan Strategic Plans, Sustainable Mobility Plans, Territorial Timetable Plan, etc.), and welfare initiatives explicitly promoting proximity in the provision of care services. This analysis focuses on identifying the framing, goals, and mechanisms employed to integrate proximity principles into urban governance. Particular attention is given to policies targeting service distribution, mobility networks, and spaces fostering community engagement and inclusion. Second, the study incorporates fieldwork-based interviews with a diverse array of stakeholders, such as policymakers, urban planners, community leaders, and representatives from civil society organizations. These interviews aim to uncover the motivations, priorities, and perceived challenges behind the adoption of the 15-minute city model in each context. This mixed-method approach allows for a nuanced understanding of how the 15-minute city concept can act as a transformative framework for sustainable and inclusive urban governance. Preliminary findings suggest divergent approaches in Milan and Bologna, reflecting differences in governance structures, stakeholder engagement, and the integration of proximity-based planning within broader sustainability agendas. While Milan emphasizes infrastructural investments and service hubs, Bologna relies on a strong tradition of civic participation and co-governance. These cases can offer valuable insights into the opportunities and limitations of the 15-minute city as a strategy for local governance innovation and sustainable urban futures. This paper contributes to the broader discourse on urban resilience and sustainable development by demonstrating how local governments can adapt global frameworks to local contexts. It argues that the 15-minute city model could represent not only a planning paradigm but also a tool for fostering community well-being and environmental justice. By bridging the gap between global sustainability goals and localized governance practices, this study underscores the potential of innovative urban models to address the interconnected challenges of the 21st century.