In New Urbanism design, a neighborhood unit refers to a planning concept aimed at creating walkable, self-contained, and mixed-use neighborhoods. It emphasizes the development of complete communities that provide residents with access to essential amenities and services within a short walking distance.
The idea behind the neighborhood unit is to create a compact and well-defined area that allows residents to meet most of their daily needs without depending heavily on automobiles. This concept is based on the principles of traditional urban neighborhoods that were prevalent before the widespread adoption of automobile-oriented development patterns.
Typically, a neighborhood unit in New Urbanism design is designed to cover an area of around 160 acres (or roughly 65 hectares). Within this area, a variety of land uses are arranged in close proximity to each other, including residential buildings, schools, parks, shops, offices, and other amenities.
The design of a neighborhood unit aims to promote walkability, encouraging people to use pedestrian-friendly streets and sidewalks as the primary means of transportation. Additionally, the mix of uses enables residents to live, work, play, and access basic services within their neighborhood, reducing the need for long commutes and enhancing the overall quality of life.
The neighborhood unit concept also emphasizes the development of a strong sense of community and fosters social interaction among residents. By creating a walkable and interconnected environment, it encourages neighbors to interact, promotes a safer and more secure environment, and provides opportunities for a diverse range of social and recreational activities.
Overall, the concept of a neighborhood unit in New Urbanism design focuses on creating compact, mixed-use, and walkable neighborhoods that offer residents a comprehensive range of amenities within a close proximity, promoting a sense of community and reducing reliance on automobiles.
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