Growth management through mixed-use neighborhood design in Springbank
Date
2007
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Abstract
Because of its geographic location, the city of Calgary has no physical boundaries. Low-density development is spreading into the countryside in all directions, with the exception of the Tsuu Tina Nation Reserve, resulting in the loss of agricultural land and cultural landscapes. Such losses devalue the social relationships of communities and threaten environmentally sensitive areas. Low-density development also increases infrastructure and personal transportation costs and travel time. Another consequence is health problems, such as obesity. In addition, shopping malls replace shopping streets, and single family homes become the only option for housing which results in increased isolation and diminished social relationships. On the outskirts of Calgary incremental growth in vernacular towns that has taken a century to happen has been destroyed in decades. A sense of place and identity are disappearing. This project argues that growth can be accommodated without losing a sense of place and that neighborhood design can be based on principles that have been practiced in traditional towns for many years. Based on research, this project develops urban design principles and uses them to present a mixeduse, compact neighborhood design that considers a diversity of housing types, shopping opportunities, open spaces, and alternate forms of transportation. Focus is placed on the preservation of environmentally sensitive areas and providing a pedestrian-friendly environment. The core of the designed community will provide opportunities for gatherings, social meetings and recreational facilities. Interconnected open space and walkable streets will encourage residents to walk, bike and take part in community activities. Together these factors help to retain the sense of place and the identity of the neighborhood.
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Bibliography: p. 82-83
Some pages are in colour.
Some pages are in colour.
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Citation
Hakimizadeh, L. (2007). Growth management through mixed-use neighborhood design in Springbank (Master's thesis, University of Calgary, Calgary, Canada). Retrieved from https://prism.ucalgary.ca. doi:10.11575/PRISM/1487