Codifying New Urbanism: How To Reform Municipal Land Development Regulations : Book Review

"Codifying New Urbanism: How to Reform Municipal Codes for Efficient Urban Development" by the Congress for the New Urbanism is a valuable guide that explores the principles and practical applications of New Urbanism within the realm of municipal codes. Written with a focus on city planning and development codes, the book advocates for the need to reform these codes in order to create more efficient and sustainable urban environments.

The book begins by outlining the fundamental principles of New Urbanism, which prioritize walkability, mixed-use development, and community engagement. It then delves into the specific challenges faced by municipalities when attempting to implement these principles and offers solutions through code reform.

One of the book's notable strengths lies in its attention to detail. The authors conduct a thorough analysis of existing codes and regulations that hinder the development of walkable neighborhoods and inclusive communities. They not only identify the problems but also provide practical suggestions for updating codes to align with New Urbanism principles.

Furthermore, "Codifying New Urbanism" goes beyond theory and offers real-world examples and case studies from various cities. By examining successful projects, the book demonstrates how code reform can result in vibrant, sustainable, and socially connected urban environments.

Overall, "Codifying New Urbanism" is an invaluable resource for urban planners, policymakers, and anyone interested in creating livable and resilient cities. It offers a comprehensive understanding of New Urbanism principles and provides a practical framework for their implementation through municipal code reform. With clear and accessible writing, this book serves as a vital guideline for transforming our cities into more sustainable and vibrant places to live.

What are readers saying?

The book "Codifying New Urbanism" by the Congress for the New Urbanism has received a range of reviews from readers, with a rating of 3.29 out of 5 stars. The feedback highlights both positive and negative aspects of the book.

Many readers have commended the book for its comprehensive overview of New Urbanism principles and its role in urban planning. They appreciate the authors' detailed explanations and real-life examples, which help to clarify how these principles can be implemented. These readers find the book to be a valuable resource for anyone interested in urban design and development.

However, there are also readers who express frustration with the book's dense and technical writing style. They feel that the content is too academic and inaccessible to a general audience. Some reviewers mention that the book often uses jargon and technical terminology without sufficient context or explanation, making it challenging to fully grasp the concepts.

Another criticism raised by some readers is the lack of updated information in the book. They argue that the field of urban planning has evolved since the book's publication, and this edition fails to address recent advancements and challenges. Additionally, a few reviewers mention that the book's organization could be improved, as it sometimes jumps between topics without clear transitions.

Despite these criticisms, many readers agree that the book serves as a good introduction to New Urbanism and provides a solid foundation for further exploration of the topic. They appreciate the book's efforts to codify and systematize the principles of New Urbanism, which can be helpful for professionals in the field.

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