AP Human

Galactic City Model

• Depicts urban planning with distinct characteristics.
• Ex Urban Nodes: Areas outside traditional urban spaces, often connected to urban centers by transportation.
• Central Business District (CBD): The core of urban economic activity, typically characterized by high-density development.
• Based on the concept of decreasing accessibility and expansion of urban areas.

Characteristics of the Galactic City Model

• Car Dependency: Modeled on cities in developed countries like the U.S. and Canada, emphasizes reliance on automobiles for transportation.
• Transportation Infrastructure: Often includes a ring of highways surrounding urban areas.
• Urban Sprawl: Notable through growth in suburban areas encircling the inner city, resulting in edge cities.

Gentrification and Urban Decay

• Gentrification refers to the reinvestment in urban areas to restore and develop previously neglected neighborhoods.
• Often results in rising property values which can displace long-time low-income residents.
• Results in physical and economic revitalization, but often at the cost of original residents.

Redlining and Blockbusting

• Redlining: The practice of denying loans or insurance to residents in certain neighborhoods based on demographics, often leading to community disinvestment.
• Blockbusting: Realtors would sell properties at lower prices to minority groups, then use fear tactics to convince existing residents to sell their homes at inflated prices and move to suburbs.

The Impact of Urban Demographics

• Shift during the Great Migration saw many African Americans move from the South to urban centers in the North seeking employment and a better life, but faced segregation and discrimination.
• Notable historical practices included racially motivated segregation affecting housing and economic opportunities.

New Urbanism

• Principles of new urbanism focus on walkability, mixed-use developments, and community connectivity.
• Aims to counter suburban sprawl and promote sustainable living through pedestrian-friendly environments.
• Local amenities and services should be within a ten-minute walking distance.

Green Belt Concept

• Green belts are designated areas of open space around urban areas to limit urban sprawl and improve environmental quality.
• Designed to preserve natural habitats, provide recreational opportunities, and maintain air quality.

Challenges of Urban Planning

• Increasing urban density while providing adequate infrastructure is a significant challenge.
• Managing traffic congestion and promoting efficient public transportation systems is critical for urban environments.
• Historical contexts deeply influence modern urban landscapes and planning.