Part 3: The first walkable city in America in a century
Over the past twenty years, there has been a push for zoning reforms in urban and suburban areas. Inner-city economies have shifted from a basis on manufacturing to service and consumption. Downtowns are now hubs for entertainment and commerce and are increasingly also being seen as destinations for living. A new generation of people—empty nesters
... See moreJohn MacDonald • Changing Places: The Science and Art of New Urban Planning
For people to choose to walk, the walk must serve some purpose. In planning terms, that goal is achieved through mixed use or, more accurately, placing the proper balance of activities within walking distance of each other. While there are exceptions, most downtowns have an imbalance of uses that can be overcome only by increasing the housing suppl
... See moreJeff Speck • Walkable City: How Downtown Can Save America, One Step at a Time
The idea is to make urban areas less dependent on cars as part of the fight against climate change. The 15-minute city framework emphasizes bringing the essentials of daily life — work, entertainment, schools and green space — within a short walk or bicycle ride from home, reducing vehicle use and dramatically cutting carbon and pollution emissions... See more