inhabitants. Urban planning is the current term to define the technical and political process of using, organizing, and developing the land and buildings of an urban environment.The practice of urban planning has been around as long as cities have been developed, but today the practice of urban planning is highly studied and dependent on the collaboration of multiple fields, perspectives, and impacts. Today there are several cities that exhibit unique and effective urban planning efforts and the results can clearly be seen in the impact of those plans on the cities' inhabitants. Here are four examples of how urban planning has shaped cities in unique ways.
1. Amsterdam, Netherlands
Designed in the 17th century, the canals of Amsterdam are an example of classic urban planning at its finest. Amsterdam developed their urban plan for the city as a response to the need to organize the trade that was already happening because of the water let into their low-country land.
Since trade was happening primarily by water, they were in an ideal situation to allow ease of trade right into the city. They could dig a ditch and it would fill up with water. In response to this ability, city planners built a canal system that defines Amsterdam to this day. The buildings along the canal were made to accept cargo from boats and many of them are converted warehouses now serving as living space. The canal serves as the city center mode of transportation and cars are not catered to, which promotes less vehicle use and traffic.
Today city planners discuss the possibility of going underground to further develop Amsterdam's city space. If contemporary Amsterdam urban planners are as clever as their forefathers, we'll look for nothing short of greatness.
2. Billerica Garden, Massachusetts
Developed in 1914, Billerica is considered the United States' first garden suburb. The city was modeled after English garden cities and its organization followed the design.
Like Amsterdam, the urban design of Billerica was a direct response to the functional needs of its inhabitants. There were so many workers coming into Boston's new industrial shops that there was a need for more affordable housing. The town is divided into co-partnerships and limited dividend corporations where workers would earn their homes by purchasing shares.
In 2005, Billerica won the AICP National Planning Landmark Award, and though it has grown since its inception, the city center cottages and gardens are still intact.
3. Eugene, Oregon
Long known for "community inventiveness," Oregon's second largest city, Eugene, keeps up with the latest education in urban planning. They are famous for their participatory planning process, known as The Oregon Experiment in the early 1970s. Current leaders use a modified version of the process.
The city is known for its cooperative community projects, alternative schools and food systems including the old Grower's Market, which is the only food co-op in the U.S. with no employees. Eugene is a trend-setting city center invested in community living.
4. Ponce Center City, Puerto Rico
Peppered with art deco and unique cultural architecture dubbed "Ponce Creole," the Ponce City Center is a rich stretch of history with plenty of space for strolling, visiting the local vendors or catching a movie at the old theatre. One of the most remarkable things about this area is the foresight of the city to maintain the historical qualities of the booming area. The entire architectural heritage has been preserved so that you can see the Catalonian heritage at every corner.
Whether born out of necessity or the drive for bringing community together, these urban centers reflect the success afforded by urban planning. They stand as examples of how layout, history, and communal efforts can be encouraged by city layout, building development and gardens.
About the Author
Heidi Novak is a writer who enjoys writing articles about urban development
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