Mixing Uses
Old zoning rules that only allow one kind of development on a piece of land are a major barrier to creating vibrant places. Mixing uses - putting schools, stores, jobs and homes, together on parcels of land - is critical to a healthy and interesting community. The key places people need to go should ideally be within walking distance of one another. This approach eases traffic and encourages physical activity.
There are different ways mixing uses can work. At Metro stations, it could mean ground-floor restaurants with condos above are right at the station, with schools, houses and parks within easy walking distance. In a suburban neighborhood not at Metro, this could mean a town center you can walk to (or drive to and park only once) and meet many of your needs - going to the library, getting coffee, dropping the kids at school and picking up groceries.
