The Steady Spread of New Urbanism

There is an awful lot of talk about the slow spread of “new urbanism”. I don’t think it’s spreading all that slowly.

The new urbanism philosophy–people living in eco-friendly communities where they can also work and play–is more widespread than we think. I’d say that the work at home mom trend has taken off over the last 15 years primarily because of new urbanism.  Consumers (especially women!) have had it with the long commute, the pollution, and the feeling that all of this has a negative impact on healthy family living and relationships.

You don’t have to move to a “new urban” styled community to live a new urbanist lifestyle. You can take steps to change your current community. I live in a large suburb that grew out of “urban sprawl” and eventually became the poster child for new urban development. Our local municipal council had planned to demolish beautiful heritage buildings in an older area of our suburb so that they could put in a large busy roadway. Well, enough residents made their opposition known and now that area has become a central, cultural space for activities and outdoor events.

Subsequent commercial and residential developments fell in line with our town council’s renewed appreciation for the “new urban” style. Today our large suburb is dotted with communities that are walkable, vibrant and viable residential and commercial centers.

Can you work, live and play where you live? If not, think about the things you can do to make central public spaces more accessible for recreation, strolling and shopping. It truly is within your community’s power.