Intro Lecture 4- Location Theory v2

Module Overview

  • Topic: Organization of cities.

  • Change Over Time: Explore how urban spaces evolve.

  • Land as a Reflection: Land represents changes in urban organization.

  • Theories of Change: Discussion of theories that help explain urban development.

Land Value and Economic Factors

Free Market System

  • Land development influenced by demand and supply.

  • City authorities use zoning ordinances to regulate land use.

  • Examples of zoning classifications:

    • R1: Residential (single-family homes)

    • C1: Light Commercial

  • Business decisions drive development within zoning districts.

Political Influence

  • Development decisions may be affected by local politics.

  • Example: Proposal for a grocery store met with resident protests, causing the developer to withdraw despite zoning alignment.

  • Indicates that local community concerns can override economic feasibility.

Location Theory / Bid Rent Theory

J. H. von Thünen's Model

  • Postulates that land values increase as proximity to the Central Business District (CBD) grows.

  • Key Concept: Proximity to the city center affects land value and rent.

  • Applicability in modern contexts: examine local examples of this theory.

Current Relevance

  • High land values in city centers due to lower transport costs and active markets.

  • Historical perspective: Farmers in 1826 utilized market places and engaged in trade – parallels in modern urban activity (e.g., shopping, dining).

Growth Models of Urban Development

Dynamic Nature of Cities

  • Cities grow in response to resident needs and habits over time.

  • Importance of recognizing growth trends in familiar communities.

A. Burgess Concentric Zone Theory

  • Developed by E. W. Burgess in 1925.

  • City growth depicted as concentric rings from the CBD:

    • Zones:1. Central Business District2.** Zone in Transition (affordable housing)3.** Zone of Better Residences4.** Commuter's Zone (affluent living)

B. Hoyt's Sector Theory

  • Developed by Homer Hoyt in 1939.

  • Adds transport corridors to urban growth dynamics:

    • Growth occurs in sectors along major transportation routes.

    • Affluent populations gravitate toward areas with better transport links.

C. Multiple Nuclei Model

  • Developed by E.L. Ullman in 1945.

  • Emphasizes multiple centers of development instead of a single CBD.

  • Growth facilitated by the interstate highway system, enabling movement away from traditional centers.

Utility of Urban Theories

  • Theories assist in predicting land values and city growth areas.

  • Enables strategic infrastructure and service planning by public officials in response to urban changes.

Migration Patterns in Urban Development

Impact of Migration

  • City populations fluctuate due to migration dynamics.

  • Planning considerations are essential for incoming populations.

  • Example: Aging baby boomers moving in with adult children.

Life Cycle Housing

Housing Needs Over Time

  • Housing needs evolve through different life stages:

    • Birth: family home

    • Young adulthood: affordable apartment

    • Marriage/children: larger home options

    • Aging: smaller homes or assisted living facilities

  • Future urban planning must accommodate diverse housing requirements as populations change.