Maxwell Hartt

Dr. Maxwell Hartt is an Associate Professor in the Department of Geography and Planning at Queen’s University, Faculty of Arts and Science. His research focuses on demographic shifts, urban shrinkage, aging populations, and policy responses to these challenges. He holds a PhD in Urban/Regional Planning from the University of Waterloo (2016), an M.Sc. in Systems Science from the University of Ottawa (2011), and a B.Sc. in Mathematics from Saint Francis Xavier University (2007).

His research explores two key themes: 1) the relationship between shrinking cities and economic resilience, challenging the assumption that population loss equals decline; and 2) aging populations and their spatial impacts, including age-friendly infrastructure and intergenerational policy. He has affiliations with the Ageing High-Rise Neighbourhoods and Ageing and Shrinking Cities research groups.

Hartt’s recent work addresses smart city design, play-enabling public spaces for seniors, and the role of social media bots in urban planning discourse. His interdisciplinary approach incorporates geography, demography, and policy analysis to address complex urban challenges.

His articles span topics like postindustrial urban regeneration, intergenerational programs, and the sensory experiences of aging populations. He combines empirical case studies (e.g., Detroit, Rhiwbina Garden Village) with theoretical frameworks to advance urban policy and planning practices.