Objective: This study aims to formulate an optimal urban resilience model in response to earthquakes by examining various factors, including proximity to faults, building density, access to open spaces, evacuation routes, distribution of critical facilities, and the condition of deteriorated urban fabric, which contribute to reducing Neyshabur’s vulnerability.
Methods: The research adopts a descriptive-analytical method, with data collected through literature review, document analysis, and spatial analyses (GIS).
Results: The findings reveal that increased vulnerability in high-risk areas, weaknesses in street networks and evacuation paths, shortage of open spaces as perceived by both citizens and experts, blocked routes in central districts, concentration of vital facilities in limited zones, and poor regeneration of deteriorated areas collectively heighten the city’s vulnerability. In contrast, areas with gentle slopes, appropriate distance from fault lines, and newly developed zones demonstrate higher levels of resilience. Accordingly, the proposed physical-spatial resilience model for Neyshabur emphasizes land use planning based on the integration of field evidence, spatial analysis, and urban planning considerations.
Conclusions: This approach, through precise identification of vulnerabilities and formulation of actionable interventions, offers an effective framework to enhance the earthquake resilience of Neyshabur and other similarly situated cities.