New urbanism

Definition

New urbanism is an urban planning and design movement that promotes walkable neighborhoods, mixed-use development, and sustainable living. It seeks to counteract the negative impacts of suburban sprawl by creating communities that emphasize human-scale design and social interaction, integrating residential, commercial, and recreational spaces. This approach encourages a sense of place and community while addressing environmental concerns.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. New urbanism emerged in the 1980s as a response to suburban sprawl and the challenges of automobile dependency.
2. The movement advocates for diverse housing options that cater to various income levels and promote inclusive communities.
3. Design principles of new urbanism include narrower streets, interconnected pathways, and a mix of residential and commercial spaces to foster social interaction.
4. New urbanist projects often incorporate green spaces and parks to enhance community well-being and environmental sustainability.
5. Cities that have implemented new urbanism principles report increased public engagement, reduced traffic congestion, and improved quality of life.

Review Questions

• How does new urbanism address the issues caused by suburban sprawl?
  • New urbanism addresses suburban sprawl by promoting walkable neighborhoods that reduce dependency on cars. This movement encourages mixed-use developments where residential, commercial, and recreational spaces are integrated, making it easier for residents to access daily needs without driving long distances. By fostering a sense of community through human-scale design, new urbanism aims to create vibrant spaces that enhance social interaction while minimizing the environmental impact associated with traditional suburban layouts.
• Evaluate the impact of new urbanism on local economies and community engagement.
  • New urbanism positively impacts local economies by attracting small businesses that benefit from foot traffic in walkable neighborhoods. The design principles encourage mixed-use developments that create vibrant community hubs, leading to increased consumer activity. Additionally, as communities become more interconnected, residents tend to engage more with their surroundings and fellow citizens, fostering a sense of belonging and participation in local governance and initiatives.
• Analyze the long-term implications of adopting new urbanism principles in urban planning and how they might influence future city designs.
  • Adopting new urbanism principles in urban planning has significant long-term implications for how cities evolve. By prioritizing sustainable practices, such as reduced car reliance and enhanced public transit systems, cities can mitigate environmental challenges like air pollution and climate change. As urban areas increasingly embrace these principles, future city designs may reflect a shift towards more resilient communities that prioritize livability, social equity, and ecological sustainability. This evolution could redefine urban landscapes as adaptable environments that support both economic growth and environmental stewardship.

Related terms

Smart Growth: A planning approach that focuses on sustainable urban development by encouraging higher density, mixed-use development and preserving open space.

Transit-Oriented Development: A type of urban development that maximizes access to public transport, integrating housing, retail, and amenities around transit hubs.

Walkability: The measure of how friendly an area is to walking, considering factors like safety, accessibility, and the presence of pedestrian paths.