Environmental Engineering Reference
In-Depth Information
FIGURE 19.4
Incorporating desert-adapted plants with dramatic effects.
19.3.7 Promote Urban Infill over Fringe Development
Southwestern cities have been plagued by the contagion of urban sprawl. The rapid expan-
sion of the urban boundary to encompass new development on the fringe is a continuous
process that cities are grappling with. The low cost of land in unincorporated areas allows
developers to make a larger profit once the land is developed, hence the emphasis to push
beyond urban boundaries for new development. This often leaves large swaths of undevel-
oped land within the urban core and beyond where public infrastructure already exists.
Cities should promote and residents should demand that city planners encourage urban
infill development. Filling in the urban core with developments that match the existing
community matrix will lead to a stronger and more vibrant community (Figure 19.5).
FIGURE 19.5
Can cities do a better job at promoting infill development in areas where infrastructure already exists?
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