Center-ing Our Suburbs
by Richard Untermann

Encouraging mixed-use centers is one way of reducing suburban dependence on the automobile. Richard Untermann describes how existing underutilized shopping areas can be converted into such centers, providing a mix of commercial, office, and residential uses, as well as improved pedestrian and transit access.

Some basic goals and principles for shopping center re-design are:

Improve Access. Maximize public transportation and pedestrian access to the site. This means providing comfortable bus stops and shelters located close to building entrances, with direct access. Fencing and landscaping should not create barriers, and access should be safe for the elderly, disabled, and small children. Direct and safe pedestrian access between stores and adjacent buildings is essential, and may require coordination between different land owners.

Increase Density. Increase the shopping center's density with added levels of retail, new buildings in existing parking lots, and offices or multi-family housing around the perimeter. See illustration below.

Convert grocery or discount stores by adding new shops at the corners so pedestrians can reach the store safely, adding second-floor uses, and constructing sidewalks on all surrounding streets.

Change the mix to include educational and cultural activities. Museums, art centers, trade schools, and libraries, among others, add life and value to Centers.

Retrofit Parking. The goal is to discourage single occupant vehicles, and reduce the amount of parking. Abundant free parking encourages auto dependency; tight parking discourages it. Existing lots can be retrofitted with sidewalks, landscaping, and covered walkways to be more pedestrian-friendly. New parking lots should be located on the sides and behind buildings, with retail being near the street.

Safe Circulation. Pedestrians and automobiles will have to co-exist at suburban retail centers. This works best by slowing the automobile so it does not overpower the pedestrian. Bus stops should be at the main building entrance. Pedestrian and auto conflicts can be minimized by connecting all buildings with walkways, creating safe pedestrian street crossings, and consolidating driveways. ...

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