Analyzing the socio-cultural impacts of the Tabriz Tarbiat sidewalk using structural equation modeling (SEM)

Beignrjad Heris, Afrang; Valizadeh, Reza; Panahi, Ali

doi:10.48306/juem.2025.531478.1080

Analyzing the socio-cultural impacts of the Tabriz Tarbiat sidewalk using structural equation modeling (SEM)

Authors

Afrang Beignrjad Heris ¹

Reza Valizadeh ²

Ali Panahi ³

¹ Department of Geography and Urban Planning,, T. G,, Islamic Azad University, Tabriz, Iran.

² Department of Geography and Urban Planning, T. G, Islamic Azad University, Tabriz, Iran

³ Department of Geography and Urban Planning, T. G,, Islamic Azad University, Tabriz, Iran.

https://doi.org/10.48306/juem.2025.531478.1080

Abstract

In recent decades, the revitalization of urban spaces through pedestrian-oriented strategies has been widely recognized as a key approach to enhancing urban livability and fostering social vitality. However, a scientific understanding of the underlying socio-cultural mechanisms influencing such spaces remains underdeveloped. This study aims to analyze the socio-cultural impacts of the Tarbiat Pedestrian Street in Tabriz using structural equation modeling (SEM). The research is applied in nature and employs a quantitative approach. Data were collected using a researcher-developed questionnaire administered to a sample of 384 pedestrian users, selected via simple random sampling. Data analysis was conducted using AMOS software. Composite reliability and Cronbach’s alpha values for all constructs exceeded 0.70, and AVE values confirmed acceptable convergent validity of the measurement model. Factor loading analysis indicated that all indicators had acceptable loadings (above 0.69). In the structural model, cultural identity, social security, and cultural vitality showed significant and positive effects on social interaction (with path coefficients of 0.59, 0.46, and 0.52, respectively). Furthermore, social interaction—acting as a mediating variable—had a direct impact on perceived spatial quality with a path coefficient of 0.67. The coefficient of determination was 0.64 for social interaction and 0.54 for spatial quality. The findings reveal that the quality of the Tarbiat pedestrian space is strongly shaped by cultural and social dynamics, and that redefining this space as an interactive and human-centered environment can significantly contribute to enriching the urban lived experience.

Keywords

Sidewalk

social interactions

cultural identity

urban vitality

Tabriz city

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