A Reference to Neo-Traditional Planning

The conversation about ‘rigid’ town communities continuing to find gathering opportunities makes me think of Neo-Traditional planning models that many planners, architects, and developers embraced after WWII to seek design-based alternatives and reorient planning around the building of communities. The concept suggests an emphasis on civic buildings and public spaces to create a greater sense of community and social interaction. This was done by recreating idealized small towns that were compact and walkable with a vibrant public personality. In many ways this model is subject to criticism and drawbacks related to privacy, authenticity, mobility, and inclusivity as Neo-Traditional developments are characterized as a diversion to address flaws associated with conventional town planning. After reading Margaret Crawford’s publication Everyday Urbanism, she introduces an interesting idea that people can begin to define public spaces produced by everyday activities and spontaneous social interactions. Rather than relying on city planning or developers to define public spaces within a neighborhood or city, communities can take control over their environment and reclaim elements of the city (often overlooked or unused spaces) to reinforce human presence, character, and gathering opportunities.