Decentralization, Localization, and the Emergence of a Quasi-participatory Decision-making Structure in Urban Development in Shanghai

China is in transition not only in the economic sense but also in restructuring its decision-making system. The research examines impacts of decentralization as a top-down initiative and localization as a bottom-up response to maximize local interests in the decision-making structure in urban development in Shanghai. The study reveals the emergence of a quasi-participatory decision structure in urban development in the form of 'expert consulting' within municipal government, sub-districts' (street offices) active involvement in local development issues, and the newly created owners associations at the neighborhood level.