monocentrisenção

Monocentrisenção is a term used in urban studies and regional planning to describe the phenomenon where a city or metropolitan area becomes overwhelmingly dominated by a single, central business district or economic hub. This concentration of economic activity, employment, and often cultural institutions in one core area can have significant implications for the development and functioning of the wider region.

In a monocentric system, most people travel to this central area for work, shopping, and entertainment. This can lead to intense traffic congestion and strain on public transportation infrastructure within and around the core. Conversely, peripheral areas may experience less economic development and fewer amenities, creating disparities in opportunity and quality of life across the metropolitan landscape.

The rise of monocentrism is often linked to historical development patterns, where early industrial or commercial centers naturally attracted subsequent growth. Factors such as land values, accessibility, and the presence of established infrastructure can reinforce this tendency. However, modern trends in telecommuting, suburbanization of retail, and the development of polycentric urban structures, where multiple centers of activity emerge, are challenging the dominance of purely monocentric models.

The study of monocentrism helps planners understand urban dynamics, anticipate challenges like sprawl and inequality, and devise strategies for more balanced and sustainable urban development. It highlights the importance of considering the interconnectedness of different parts of a metropolitan region and fostering growth beyond a single dominant center.