ABSTRACT
People's perceptions about innovation districts are widening. They are now seen not only as a hub for commerce, research, and education, but also as a node for facilitating recreational, cultural, and community-based activities. However, the level of integration of local communities with innovation districts is an understudied area. This chapter aims to identify the likely features of innovation districts that can enhance public inclusiveness within this new land use type. This study surveys a large number of participants from three major Australian cities to address a research question—How can an enhanced community engagement with innovation districts be established? The results reveal that currently, community engagement with innovation districts is limited to occupational and educational activities; lack of social coherence between knowledge workers and the public limits community engagement with innovation districts; advanced amenities, authentic scenes, and unique experiences from innovation districts would enhance community engagement. The study informs planning and design policies to improve public engagement in innovation districts.
