CITY Design Strategies

City scale design strategies provide for a nested hierarchy of central places (city, districts and neighborhoods) supported by an effective infrastructure emphasizing transit and pedestrianization. This infrastructure is expressed in community greenways and the clustering of activities increases pedestrian enjoyment and accessibility.

Existing and Proposed city center revitalization and pedestrianization.

1. The reanimation of the historic city center is facilitated by its ideal, centralized geographic position. The clustered restructuring of the central city and the "Main Street Program" foster incentives for economic growth which reverses its past decline (a trend experienced by most city centers due to auto-driven suburban sprawl, decentralized malls and strip development throughout the country).
2. Design priority is given to pedestrian and public transit systems. The clearly defined greenways and transport systems throughout the city make a substantial reduction in auto use of non-renewable energy. This is the single most important strategy in balancing the CO₂ to O cycle and improving air quality in the community.
3. State building codes increase energy conservation standards, currently 50% better than the 1985 buildings to 70% in the year 2000. Due to advancements in efficiency, the use of solar design strategies and photovoltaics, many advanced buildings can actually add to the shared energy grid.
4. Resource management (traditionally waste disposal) becomes self-sufficient by adopting the state priorities to first reduce, then reuse and recycle. The model fosters community enterprises based on sustainable resource use, reuse and recycling.

Greenway flowing through the city creating water impoundment areas, recreation and biodiversity in Boulder, Colorado.	The reanimation of Boulders historic city center. This pedestrian priority zone is a wonderful focus for the city.
Pullman's Palouse River at flood stage flowing through its city center.	New Quay River flowing through its city center. This flood plane was designed to accommodate flooding while impounding water for Summer/Fall and Winter recreational use (England).
Farmers Market in Moscow, Idaho, 8 miles to the East of Pullman. Pullman has a similiar market to celebrate regional produce.	Koppel Farm and Gardens established in Pullman by the Greystone Foundation. The gardens provide for local produce and environmental education.

• Also reference:
  • Regional Strategies
  • Districts and Neighborhoods
  • Residential Clusters
  • Dwelling Units

This web site was developed with the authors and Michael Mahaffy, Computer Systems Professional, School of Architecture, Washington State University