The Fused Grid

A new street grid that combines the cul-de-sac pattern of the modern suburb and the grid pattern from the early 1900s could change the way developments are built.

1 minute read

September 21, 2003, 7:00 AM PDT

By Chris Steins @planetizen

"The fused grid was developed by Fanis Grammenos, a senior researcher at the CMHC in Ottawa, and a team of colleagues. It combines two traditional street designs: the conventional loop and cul-de-sac pattern of the modern suburb and the grid pattern from the early 1900s... Through his research, Grammenos discovered that residents want the best of both street patterns. In particular, they want connectivity, safety and the tranquility of quiet spaces. One of the advantages of the design is the fact that there is 19 per cent more buildable land because the street area, storm sewers, sidewalks and pavement are reduced by up to 30 per cent... public green spaces can be increased by 8 to 12 per cent... Housing density can be increased by 10 to 15 per cent."

Thanks to Grigorii Boyko-Vekin

FULL STORY: New street grids blend old designs

Saturday, September 20, 2003 in The Toronto Star

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