Infill Development

Definition

Infill development refers to the practice of building on vacant or underutilized land within existing urban areas, rather than expanding into undeveloped land. This strategy helps to maximize the efficiency of land use, reduces urban sprawl, and promotes sustainable growth by making better use of infrastructure and resources already in place.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. Infill development can help revitalize neighborhoods by introducing new housing, businesses, and amenities without requiring new land consumption.
2. This type of development often prioritizes mixed-use projects that integrate residential, commercial, and recreational spaces to create vibrant communities.
3. By reducing reliance on automobiles through improved access to public transportation and walkable environments, infill development can contribute to lower carbon emissions.
4. Infill projects can enhance property values in surrounding areas by increasing the overall attractiveness and functionality of neighborhoods.
5. The successful implementation of infill development often requires collaboration with local governments and community stakeholders to address concerns related to infrastructure, services, and aesthetics.

Review Questions

• How does infill development impact urban density and the overall growth pattern of cities?
  • Infill development increases urban density by utilizing vacant or underused land within existing city limits. This approach helps combat urban sprawl by promoting compact growth rather than expanding into surrounding areas. By concentrating development in established neighborhoods, infill projects can create vibrant communities that are more walkable and better connected to existing infrastructure.
• Discuss the relationship between infill development and smart growth principles in urban planning.
  • Infill development aligns closely with smart growth principles by focusing on sustainable land use that encourages compact, transit-oriented communities. Both concepts prioritize reducing environmental impact by minimizing land consumption and promoting public transportation options. Smart growth advocates for mixed-use developments, which are often a hallmark of successful infill projects, creating spaces where people can live, work, and play within close proximity.
• Evaluate the potential challenges and benefits of implementing infill development in urban areas, considering community perspectives.
  • Implementing infill development can present challenges such as resistance from existing residents who may fear changes in neighborhood character or property values. However, it also offers numerous benefits including improved access to amenities and services, increased property values, and reduced environmental impacts due to less reliance on vehicles. Engaging with community members throughout the planning process is essential for addressing concerns and ensuring that infill projects meet the needs of both current residents and future users.

Related terms

Urban Density: The concentration of people, buildings, or activities within a specific area, which can impact the social, economic, and environmental dynamics of a community.

Smart Growth: An urban planning approach that emphasizes sustainable and environmentally responsible development patterns, promoting compact, transit-oriented, and walkable communities.

Zoning:

The legal process by which local governments regulate land use by designating specific areas for particular types of development or activities, such as residential, commercial, or industrial.