Compact Development That Contributes To Sprawl?

The appeal of an urban lifestyle -- pedestrian-friendly streets, recreational and retail amenities at arm's reach, a shorter commute to work -- is the trend in the latest mega-developments, which aim to weave together residential, commercial and industrial uses. The environmental benefits of more compact development, such as setting aside open space and liberating residents from auto-dependency, is touted too. The reality? Town center developments sited in remote areas are likely to be far from primary job centers, lack sufficient roads and utilities, and fail to reach the residential and commercial density needed to support mass transit.