New Urbanism is a design philosophy that focuses development in compact, pedestrian-oriented town centers, and often looks to our historic towns and urban areas for inspiration. In contrast to the sterile, auto-dependent strip shopping centers of past decades, a new urbanist approach creates a community gathering place that brings life to town centers.

New Urbanism moves away from strict zoning categories in favor of form-based coding, which regulates the design and location of buildings rather than their uses. New Urbanism guides development on all scales, from a building to a region. It includes infill projects (or redevelopment) in existing urban and suburban areas, public housing developments, and regional guidelines for development. New Urbanism supports regional planning for open space, appropriate architecture and design, and a balance of jobs and housing.

In all cases, New Urbanist neighborhoods are walkable, incorporate transit oriented development where possible, and contain a diverse range of housing and job choices to create attractive communities.

More on New Urbanism:
Solutions
History
Contacts

Related Issues:
Transit Oriented Development (TOD)
Land Use
Balanced Land Use (BLU)

More Information:
New Urbanism Vs. Sprawl
Find a New Urbanist Project In Your State - Congress for New Urbanism