Smart Growth: Urban Renewal & New Urban Planning

 by Gregg Brazel

“The first time I walked out of the subway and saw Greenwich Village, I knew I had to live there. I liked its human scale, the mix of shops and housing, the little streets and many courtyards. The craft shops. The Italian food stores. It was so full of surprises." 

- Jane Jacobs, The Death and Life of Great American Cities

The impacts of urban planning are largely overlooked but immensely important.  As we've seen over our nation’s short history, the way we plan and build has an enormous impact on our society and the natural environment.  Shorter commutes mean less infrastructure, reduced land consumption, lower costs to the taxpayer and resident, less pollution, better health, and more time for family and self. 

Employers gain from a more balanced and better rested workforce; workers gain from a more balanced and rested life.  Additionally, the societal fabric is tightened as business owners and workers have a vested interest in the communities in which they live, socialize, and contribute.   Do Starbucks executives and shareholders have a real concern for any particular town from which they derive their profits? … The bottom line is the bottom line.

Evanston is an excellent example of the benefits of high-density, mixed-use development.  Tight-knit communities have close proximity to jobs, stores, services, and recreation, as well as a diverse culture, higher economic stability, and strong community groups.   They promote not only mixed-use, but mixed-housing for the diverse blend of people that constitute our “melting pot” – the true source of America’s innovation and wealth.  Small adjacent large, Black along White, Muslim aside Christian.  Understanding others is key to peace and prosperity; the positive global influence of integrated societies is undeniable.

Unfortunately, due to the lack of similar communities in the area and a renewed appreciation and value for vibrant environments, demand for housing in diverse communities is high, and therefore out of reach for many.  The good news is that this, in itself, proves the economic viability of the mixed-use urban model. 

Accordingly, developers should look to thriving communities of the past when planning towns of the future that we hope will be prosperous 200 years from today. If they don't, it is our responsibility to require them to make more housing options, in all price brackets, available through activism in the planning and zoning process. 

Future generations will thank us if we do.

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