New Urbanism

New urbanism describes a movement of development that promotes walkable neighborhoods that have a range of house types with different available jobs. New urbanism began in the United States in the early 1980s. It is said to be closely related to Environmentalism. The developers of new urbanism hope that their planning and strategies will reduce the traffic congestion, increase the supply of affordable housing, and reduce sprawl. Southern Durham Development Inc claims that the proposed development around Jordan Lake would be an example of new urbanism. The company’s website shows a video that defines the goals of a new urban neighborhood. I am sure the developers have many plans to reduce the development’s environmental impact and make it an example of new urbanism, but the location of the proposed development seems to contradict the strategies of new urbanism. New urbanism is supposed to rein in on urban sprawl. The location of 751 South appears to be an example of urban sprawl. The neighborhoods wouldn’t really be an expansion of the city of Durham. Instead it appears to just be another example of the city sprawling outwards. I am perplexed how the developing company can call the proposed development an example of new urbanism when its location contradicts the strategies of new urbanism.