Excellent presentation! Long ago, a wise mentor of mine once observed that to overcome our tendency toward sprawling suburban development, we must find a way to “make a virtue of density.” I liked that notion and often repeated it when working with local planning officials. Many nodded in passive agreement that it might be a good idea. But I realized they weren’t sold on it as they continued their support for low density development. I have come to understand that making a virtue of density implied, in their minds, some sort of sacrifice for the common good. But that’s just wrong for all the reasons set forth in this article. Where is the sacrifice in lower per-capita costs, more efficient use of public facilities and services and stronger, more vibrant communities?
Excellent presentation! Long ago, a wise mentor of mine once observed that to overcome our tendency toward sprawling suburban development, we must find a way to “make a virtue of density.” I liked that notion and often repeated it when working with local planning officials. Many nodded in passive agreement that it might be a good idea. But I realized they weren’t sold on it as they continued their support for low density development. I have come to understand that making a virtue of density implied, in their minds, some sort of sacrifice for the common good. But that’s just wrong for all the reasons set forth in this article. Where is the sacrifice in lower per-capita costs, more efficient use of public facilities and services and stronger, more vibrant communities?