Paul Knight delivers an impassioned defense of the gridded urban form against its many criticisms -- that its boring, its unnatural, its only use is to maximize profits for developers, etc.
Using images and historical examples to bolster his own perceptions, Knight addresses some common fallacies in defense of the grid.
For example:
On the claim the grid is boring: "The grid generates neither excitement nor monotony though it does provide for both equally. Again, the grid is simply what your city makes of it."
On the claim the grid is a tool for speculators: "William Penn founded Philadelphia on the grid plan partly because it created equal lots and blocks everywhere. Thus, his concept of brotherhood and equality was embodied in the plan itself."
On the claim that the grid only belongs in urban centers: "Remember the obvious-a continuous grid of nothing but orthogonal blocks can harbor everything from farms to skyscrapers. The only thing a grid plan does is subdivide territory."
FULL STORY: Fallacies Against the Grid
The Dynamism, and Dysfunction, of Los Angeles
That's where authors Nathan Cherry and Kurt Nagle found their inspiration for their new book about urban form. Grid/Street/Place.
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In "A History of Street Networks," Lawrence Aurbach discusses the intellectual movements driving the growth of suburban-style street design.
The Sweet Smell of Density? Subconscious Influences on Perceptions of Urban Form
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Planetizen Federal Action Tracker
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Savannah Reduces Speed Limits on Almost 100 City Streets
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A Park Reborn: Resilience and Renewal in Fire-Stricken Altadena
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Spain Moves to Ban 66,000 Airbnbs
The national government is requiring the short-term rental operator to remove thousands of illegal listings from its site as part of an effort to stem a growing housing crisis.
Urban Design for Planners 1: Software Tools
This six-course series explores essential urban design concepts using open source software and equips planners with the tools they need to participate fully in the urban design process.
Planning for Universal Design
Learn the tools for implementing Universal Design in planning regulations.
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City of Moorpark
City of Camden Redevelopment Agency
City of Astoria
Transportation Research & Education Center (TREC) at Portland State University
Regional Transportation Commission of Southern Nevada
Toledo-Lucas County Plan Commissions