Impacts of Urban Design Initiatives (College Board AP® Human Geography)
Study Guide
Written by: Kristin Tassin
Reviewed by: Bridgette Barrett
Praise for Urban Design Initiatives
Urban design initiatives focus on creating cities that are:
sustainable
livable
efficient
The important positive benefits of urban design include the following:
increased accessibility to transport, jobs, services, and recreation
less travel time and reduced traffic
less pollution and decreased energy use
revitalization of urban landscapes, such as the redevelopment of brownfields
preservation and conservation of parkland
the limitation of urban sprawl due to the increasingly efficient use of space
the increasing sense of community in urban areas due to more regular use of the space
Examiner Tips and Tricks
Think about the ways in which environmental, social, and economic factors interact in sustainable urban design initiatives. Sustainable design focuses on renewable energy and reduction of dependence on automobiles. Increases in public transportation both benefit the environment and increase access to infrastructure and services for more people. Higher-density housing uses fewer resources, allows for more equitable housing availability, and increases access to businesses, education, and entertainment.
Criticisms of Urban Design Initiatives
Urban design initiatives also have potential negative effects. These include:
lack of affordable housing in the city center
de facto segregation
strains on infrastructure due to increased urban populations
the loss of historical and distinctive character in urban areas
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