Community Participation, Social Capital Cultivation and Sustainable Community Renewal: A Case Study from Xi’an’s Southern Suburbs, China

The paper delves into urban renewal, focusing on the transformative potential of community revitalization. Through a comprehensive case study of the Xinqingyayuan Community in Xi’an, China, the paper unveils a novel perspective on sustainable renewal mechanisms driven by community members and autonomous organizations. The study responds to a gap in the literature by exploring the dynamics of bottom-up community renewal, shifting the spotlight from governmental intervention to community self-construction. The theoretical framework synthesizes participatory governance theories, social capital dynamics, and sustainable development paradigms, illuminating the interconnectedness between community agency, collective action, and vibrant urban spaces. The research emphasizes the significance of community ownership and participation by scrutinizing the Xinqingyayuan Community’s renewal journey across dimensions like governance power, public space, infrastructure, ecological environment, and social capital. The study’s findings offer invaluable insights for practitioners, policymakers, and urban planners seeking to facilitate enduring urban transformation. It highlights the importance of fostering community ownership, engaging residents in decision-making, and ensuring judicious resource allocation. The paper also underscores the role of shared revenue as a resource for infrastructure renewal, advocating transparent financial practices to support sustainable initiatives. In sum, the research contributes to the discourse on sustainable community renewal by unraveling the complexities of owner-led approaches. It presents a theoretical framework and practical insights that empower communities to proactively shape their renewal trajectories, ultimately fostering vibrant, resilient, and culturally enriched urban spaces. The study’s implications hold potential for reshaping urban landscapes, promoting inclusive development, and creating thriving neighborhoods founded on collaborative governance and community-driven initiatives.