SUBURBAN RETROFIT
Great Idea: Building better suburbs through retrofit
Suburbs are becoming more diverse and connected to meet the needs of Americans of all ages in the 21st Century.
Redesigned street leads to better suburb
South Miami, Florida, has completely transformed since 2000—largely following the context-sensitive transformation of its main street.
A suburban town revitalizes incrementally
Parsons Alley activates abandoned properties, creates a popular and lively new public place, and attracts businesses that appeal to young professionals.
The urban dimensions of climate change: Lessons for a New Urbanism
Reining in sprawl is still the most important first step in transitioning to a more benign kind of settlement, and more responsible planning. Reduction of greenhouse gas emissions is only one of many benefits—but it is a significant one.
Converting a shopping mall to a downtown
Downtown Westminster, Colorado, is designed as a ‘place’ that grows organically with affordable housing included.
Small industrial city diversifies its economy with urbanism
Elkhart, Indiana, is implementing plans to attract young, talented, workers to start businesses and boost the economy.
Road diet creates people-oriented corridor for suburb
The city of Oak Park has the density—it needs placemaking, and that is why an automobile-oriented corridor is being transformed with a linear greenway and complete street.
Malls to mixed-use centers and other opportunities
While hundreds of malls are declining, they are also being reused for all kinds of purposes—including walkable urban places in communities lacking in this kind of environment.