Architect Ross Chapin, who has spent his career championing the "pocket neighborhood" concept has proven that "walkability" and "new urbanism" concepts which are successful in the Northwestcan be successful in the Midwest. TheInglenook community development in Carmel, Indiana is proof that "pocket neighborhoods" can be successful anywhere. We particularly like the concept
New Word: “De-Malling”
In the late 1960’s and 1970’s the retail industry clustered under a common roof in controlled 72 degree conditions. As consumer tastes changed and populations shifts, the "life-style" center became the next new thing. The problem being addressed today is what do we do with all of the covered malls around the country ? One
Value of Walkability
According to walkscore.com a walkable neighborhood has:
1) A center: Walkable neighborhoods have a center, whether it’s a main street or a public space.
2) People: Enough people for businesses to flourish and for public transit to run frequently
3) Mixed income, mixed use: Affordable housing located near businesses.
4) Parks and public space: Plenty of
Trends We Are Watching
- The residential housing market is stalling; and perhaps non-existent for homes priced in the top third of the market;
- Public funds for roadway expansions are going to become harder to come by;
- There is and will continue to be an over supply of low density fringe suburban homes (exurban);
- Baby Boomers and their children are
So You Think Tax Credits Are Boring ?
If we want a healthier community we need to start with a healthy core city. I am a social worker, turned tax attorney, turned real estate deal maker. I tell you this because those phases of my life have all brought me to this point in my career. You know the theory about the donut. If there