Can new urbanism provide better storm water control than low-density development?
Compact development such as new urbanism is being touted as more environmentally sustainable than low-density development. In low-density development there are generally fewer than 3 to 4 homes per acre with large front lawns and long driveways, and residential areas are widely separated from commercial centers and workplaces. New urbanism is a high density pattern (4 or more dwelling units per acre) that mixes different land uses (homes, shops, schools, offices etc.) and has narrow, pedestrian-friendly streets and short setbacks from streets. Compact development is said to consume less open space, produce less impervious surface area, and be more protective of water quality. However, there is little empirical evidence regarding the extent to which compact development can mitigate water quality and quantity impacts and how it can be effectively integrated into local land-use plans and regulations. In this new project the investigator will explore the potential for compact development t
