Hedge cities : gambling on regional futures

Abstract

Environmental degradation, automobile dependence, anticipated rapid population growth and spatial inequity have combined to form the basis for recent North American regional plans advocating a physical alternative to diffuse, uncoordinated development. To provide a physical place in which development can be re-channeled, a number of regions have promoted a network of sub-regional centers in designated locations along existing or planned rapid transit lines. These centers are the urban embodiment of an ecologically sustainable, economically diverse, pedestrian-oriented region in which a variety of housing types is available, jobs are located close to population centers, and social groups are less stratified in enclaves dominated by a single form of development. This paper critically assesses the planning, design and development of designated regional centers in North America during the past two decades, focusing specifically on the promotion of regional centers for Metropolitan Portland, Oregon and Greater Vancouver, British Columbia. Through case studies, comparative analysis, and assessment of real estate trends and urban design, the paper provides a window into the initial success of intentional centers in both regions. Design and development outcomes across the centers of both regions vary dramatically, but a number of consistent themes emerged from the research: the number and size of sub-regional centers planned for both regions appears far too ambitious;

(cont.) a lack of market analysis prior to the designation of centers can presage their failure; limited local and regional support in curtailing traditional suburban forms of development that compete with centers has reduced their attraction; and the consistency of local planning approaches - both to centers and other parts of the region - appears to influence the success of centers. The paper argues that a more refined approach balancing multiple growth forecasts, aggressive coordination of transportation and land use, the unique geometries of individual places and political considerations must be taken to the formulation and implementation of plans for centers if they are to truly emerge as the new nuclei for economic and cultural activities in the suburbs of North American regions. Future directions for research suggested by this paper include closer analysis of the viability of various plan-making processes, the relationship between different modes of public transit, land use regulations and transit-oriented development, and the role of local morphologies in supporting or impeding the implementation of regional planning objectives.