In the mid-twentieth century, urban planners widely adopted the 'super-block' design, prioritizing vehicular efficiency and high-density housing separated by vast, open lawns. Although intended to provide residents with access to light and clean air, these massive, uniform green spaces often went unused. Urban sociologist Jane Jacobs argued that this failure stemmed from a lack of spatial differentiation and localized purpose. In her view, successful urban spaces require a mixture of uses—such as small shops, residences, and parks in close proximity—to foster regular, organic human activity. Without these diverse daily destinations, the open lawns became desolate zones that failed to integrate into the social fabric of the neighborhood, demonstrating that sheer physical acreage of greenery is insufficient for community engagement.
Which choice best states the main idea of the text?
- Large green spaces in urban areas are ineffective at fostering community engagement unless they are integrated with diverse, localized neighborhood uses.Answer
- BUrban planning models from the mid-twentieth century generally failed to improve the living conditions of city residents.
- CThe 'super-block' design was highly effective at improving vehicular efficiency but failed to provide residents with light and clean air.
- DJane Jacobs believed that small shops and parks should be managed by local residents rather than urban planners to ensure organic community activity.