What is new urbanism ap human geography?

New Urbanism is a planning and development approach that focuses on creating walkable, mixed-use neighborhoods that are designed to be compact and pedestrian-friendly. This concept emerged in the 1980s as a response to the rapid urban sprawl and automobile-oriented development that was prevalent in many American cities.

Some key principles of New Urbanism include:

1. Mixed-use development: New Urbanist neighborhoods typically include a mix of residential, commercial, and public spaces within close proximity to each other. This helps to reduce the need for residents to rely on cars for daily tasks.

2. Compact design: New Urbanist developments are designed to be compact, with higher density and a variety of housing options to accommodate different income levels and lifestyles. This helps to foster a sense of community and encourage social interaction.

3. Walkability: New Urbanist neighborhoods are designed with a focus on pedestrian-friendly streets and public spaces, with shorter block lengths, sidewalks, and bike lanes to encourage walking and biking as primary modes of transportation.

4. Transit-oriented development: New Urbanism promotes the development of neighborhoods that are well-connected to public transportation systems, making it easier for residents to get around without relying on cars.

Overall, the goal of New Urbanism is to create vibrant, sustainable, and inclusive communities that promote social interaction, physical activity, and environmental sustainability. It has gained popularity in recent years as cities look for ways to address issues related to urban sprawl, traffic congestion, and environmental degradation.