Earthquake preparedness in cities through urban transformation in Turkiye: The case of Yalova province

Türkiye's geographical position on active fault lines necessitates comprehensive urban transformation initiatives to mitigate seismic risks. Particularly in high-risk areas, urban renewal projects serve as a multidimensional strategy, addressing not only physical resilience but also fostering social solidarity, economic sustainability, and community awareness. Yalova, profoundly impacted by the 1999 Marmara Earthquake, represents a critical case for analyzing the effectiveness of such projects. This study explores the multifaceted impacts of urban transformation initiatives in Yalova on earthquake preparedness. Data were collected using semi-structured questionnaires designed on Google Forms, targeting local participants. Employing a phenomenological approach, the research delved into subjective perceptions of the projects. Additionally, SWOT analysis was conducted to evaluate the strengths, weaknesses, opportunities, and threats associated with urban transformation efforts. The findings revealed that while these projects significantly contributed to reducing seismic vulnerabilities, they faced critical limitations in participatory planning, financial resource allocation, and social cohesion. The analysis underscores the dual role of urban transformation projects, not only as tools for disaster mitigation but also as catalysts for enhancing the social, economic, and environmental resilience of urban settings. The study emphasizes the necessity of integrated frameworks that combine local dynamics with global best practices to ensure more inclusive and sustainable outcomes in future urban renewal policies.