ABSTRACT
Related to the sprawl debates of the past few decades, disagreements over the benefits and detriments of higher density development are just as heated. Proponents of denser and more compact cities suggest that greater densities have positive spillover effects in supporting transit, reducing car usage, enhancing local economic development, providing various environmental benefits, and promoting greater social interaction. Fear of higher density development is fostered in part by images of questionable mid-century new-town developments and poorly managed public housing. To many people, the term density itself frequently suggests ideas about various environmental and social problems. NIMBY (Not In My Backyard) responses to higher-density residential living are common, yet often unfounded and unsubstantiated. Opponents of higher density development are typically not opposed to higher densities elsewhere – just not next to their current low-density residences. Other fears are based on the effects of social and psychological overcrowding and its impacts on behavioral freedom.
