Forget marshmallows, let's roast subdivisions!

The functionality of our residential neighborhoods is of great importance. Poor design can reduce transportation options and create unsafe conditions. Good design can increase efficiency of services and can foster a strong sense of place. Subdivisions often times must be approved if they comply with the jurisdiction's standards which takes a lot of discretion (if any) out of the approval process. Issues can arise when the standards are outdated and do not allow current best practices to be implemented.

There are some recurring elements that tend to generate criticism of subdivisions within the United States. Connectivity within and outside subdivisions is very important to provide alternative routes of travel and to reduce speeds within residential areas. Maximum block length standards tend to increase connectivity by introducing intersections and street stubs to unplatted tracts that must be carried through when the adjacent tracts are developed. Street jogs can create interesting situations on the ground where there are turning movement conflicts. The number of required access points for subdivisions can also promote connectivity and improve the efficiency of services and even public safety. Finally, pedestrian facilities such as sidewalks, cut-through easements, and other amenities provide opportunities and accessibility options.

Low connectivity, both vehicular and pedestrian, are typical in American subdivisions. While looking throughout the U.S., it becomes strikingly clear that America is a nation of curvilinear, disconnected pockets of residential subdivisions. The traditional grid pattern has become a thing of the past for three main reasons: economical (more lots more money), societal (cul-de-sacs are perceived as being safer), and federal policy (FHA loan standards incentivized curvilinear layouts). While this may be the future, it also doesn't mean that cities should fully abandon design elements that lead to connected, safe, and walkable neighborhoods.

Often regarded as a task for an engineer to complete, subdivision review should receive special attention from planners because of how it directly correlates to urban design, public safety, fiscal sustainability, and sense of place. It is time to review your subdivision design ordinance and be sure that it provides the standards needed to build the neighborhoods your community wants to see!