In the past decade, our focus has shifted from understanding the negative impact of highways – displacing families and destroying urban neighborhoods – to removing them, reconnecting neighborhoods, and making cities a desirable place to live. Examples include the Inner Loop removal in Rochester, the transformation of I-81 in Syracuse, alternative solutions for I-787 in Albany, and efforts to repair the damage caused by the Kensington and Scajaquada in Buffalo. Similar initiatives are taking place in cities like New York, New Orleans, Seattle, Detroit, New Haven, Atlanta, Dallas, and Denver.
Successful highway transformation projects create places where people want to live. Here are appealing elements of successfully planned urban communities.
Walkable neighborhoods. Creating vibrant neighborhoods where daily necessities are conveniently within a 5-minute walk or a 10-minute bike ride. This promotes independence, safety, and accessibility for all, allowing easy access to homes, recreation, business, education, worship, and shopping. Neighbors can fulfill most needs on foot while still having the option to venture beyond their immediate surroundings.
Zone for it. Outdated zoning regulations can lead to dissatisfaction with construction projects. Updating zoning codes facilitates discussions on development and transect-based or form-based codes have proven effective in creating desirable places. Incorporating housing options and affordability policies can help address housing needs effectively.
Connected, safe streets. Streets are vital for connecting our communities. The best streets form a network, linking us to local destinations. They are enjoyable for walking and biking and provide safety and comfort. Well-shaped streets have a height-to-width ratio between 1:1 and 3:1. Designing streets for slower traffic is crucial, as the risk of life-threatening pedestrian injury increases 80% when speed limit increases from 20 to 40 mph, as reported in “Dangerous by Design.”
Vibrant community spaces. Create diverse public spaces that foster community engagement. From the commons in New England to Latin America’s Plaza Majors, and the pocket parks in San Francisco to the Piazzae in Rome, these spaces are enhanced by active building fronts and gathering spots for various events. Streets connect these vibrant “rooms.”
Nature enriches lives. As we have learned throughout scientific study, nature boosts learning, work, healing, and satisfaction. Tree-lined streets and diverse green spaces, including parks, ponds, playgrounds, and trails are essential for our well-being.
Place-friendly buildings. Community-centric architecture enriches public spaces and thoroughfares. Design structures that harmonize with the surroundings, draw inspiration from the past, and contribute to the local identity. Engaging buildings foster walking, community interaction, and create memorable places cherished by the neighborhood.
Community-focused development. Understanding a particular community’s priorities regarding schools, shopping, and other resources is necessary. A 2018 Realtor.com survey revealed that 73% of home buyers prioritize good school districts, with most willing to compromise on amenities like garages, large backyards, and outdoor living areas. To serve people effectively, we must meet their everyday needs.
Community-led transformation. Empower affected communities to lead neighborhood transformation by giving them a voice. Ensure accessible participation with childcare, snacks, and online access. Embrace community feedback and foster a collaborative approach rather than imposing solutions. Meet the community where they are to create meaningful change together.
Illustrating the community’s vision. Visualizing future plans can help bridge communication gaps in the planning process. Illustrations offer a tangible representation of a community’s vision, allowing meaningful conversations with planners and decision-makers. They convey how zoning, policies, and goals will manifest and set expectations for developers. Empowering people and using visualizations foster consensus and enthusiasm for the plan.
Transforming highways into vibrant neighborhood connections is a collaborative, multi-disciplinary endeavor. By embracing these principles, engaging in open discussions, and working together, we can reconnect neighborhoods and ensure everyone benefits from this transformation.