Mississippi Town Prepares For 'New Urbanism'

In a typically conservative and car friendly region of the country, some are beginning to see the benefits of creating more livable communities, falling in love with the idea of being within walking distance of community amenities.

Flowood, a suburb of Jackson, Mississippi, and a small low-density community made up of strip malls and single family homes has grown up without a downtown. This is all about to change at the hands of 'New Urbanism' and Duany, Plater-Zyberk & Co. The New Urbanist design plans for a 140-acre, $325 million town center.

A week-long planning charrette was held by the firm and hosted local residents and officials. The project will include a new city hall, live/work space, an elementary school and more. Residents and community officials hope this project will provide a much needed heart and sense of community for Flowood.