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Lesson 6: Neo-Traditional Neighborhood Design

Objectives:

Upon completion of this lesson, students will be able to:

  1. Recognize neo-traditional neighborhood design.
  2. Explain the key elements of neo-traditional neighborhood design.

Pre-Instruction:

Components

Activities

Motivation

To contrast with the motivational activity of the last lesson, take the class for a walk through an older neighborhood or other equally pedestrian-friendly location in your area that typifies neo-traditional neighborhood design. Point out the positive aspects of the development type in terms of how it encourages pedestrian and/or bicycle travel.

Objectives

Present and explain the two lesson goals listed above (V-6-1).

Information Presentation:

Components

Activities

Information Sequence

Outline the presentation of the lecture (V-6-2).

Information

Explain what neo-traditional neighborhood design is and how it encourages bicycling and walking.

Illustrate the different elements of neo-traditional neighborhood design (V-6-3 and V-6-4).

Example(s)

Make liberal use of examples (e.g., slides, videotape) to illustrate neo-traditional neighborhood design.

Student Participation:

Components

Activities

Practice

Have the students sketch out a completely new development using neo-traditional neighborhood design concepts.

Feedback

Provide comment and feedback to the class as appropriate.

Follow-Up:

Components

Activities

Enrichment

Assign reading for Lesson 7.

Provide the students with a copy of the local planning or zoning ordinance. Have them look for the sections relevant to non-motorized transportation.

Review

 

Lesson Objectives:

  • Recognize neo-traditional neighborhood design
  • Explain the key elements of neo-traditional neighborhood design

Lesson Outline:

  • What is neo-traditional neighborhood design?
  • How does neo-traditional neighborhood design encourage bicycling and walking?
  • What are the different elements of neo-traditional neighborhood design?

Elements of Neo-Traditional Neighborhood Design:

  • Basic street layout
  • Use of alleys
  • Street design speed
  • Street width
  • Curb radii
  • Intersection geometry

Elements of Neo-Traditional Neighborhood Design (continued):

  • Street trees and landscaping
  • Street lighting
  • Sidewalk width and location
  • Building setbacks
  • Parking

Lesson Summary:

  • Neo-traditional neighborhood design is a means of encouraging non-motorized transportation
  • There are many design elements that constitute a neo-traditional neighborhood.