CNN.com/technology, June 16
Author: Lara Farrar
"The American dream is absolutely changing," [Christopher Leinberger, an urban planning professor at the University of Michigan] told CNN.
This change can be witnessed in places like Atlanta, Georgia, Detroit, Michigan, and Dallas, Texas, said Leinberger, where once rundown downtowns are being revitalized by well-educated, young professionals who have no desire to live in a detached single family home typical of a suburbia where life is often centered around long commutes and cars.
Instead, they are looking for what Leinberger calls "walkable urbanism" -- both small communities and big cities characterized by efficient mass transit systems and high density developments enabling residents to walk virtually everywhere for everything -- from home to work to restaurants to movie theaters.
1 comment:
Michael - Leininger's article is making a lot of people think. Some are saying, "How can we adapt to new realities?" while others are saying, "How can we bring back the good old days?"
What makes the article so powerful is the breadth of research with which Leininger backs up his points. While suburbia is not (yet) a heap of ruins, the cracks in its walls are increasingly apparent.
My visits to Canada lead me to believe that you are better prepared for the transition that we are in the US, especially in Michigan, where I live. I commend you for your work on public transportation in Ottawa, which I've ben following with interest.
Here in Michigan, I am trying to raise awareness of the need, and gather people and companies to invest in sustainable, transit-oriented development. I would value your comments and perspectives on my blog: http://washtenawtod.blogspot.com/
Thanks - Larry 8-)>
Post a Comment