(University of Oregon, 2009-12) Wilkinson, Sarah Wraye
New Urbanists promote development modeled upon neighborhoods that are highdensity
and mixed-use with connected streets so that residents will drive less and have a
strong sense of community. Little is known about whether New Urbanist environments
provide the envisioned change in living experience for those who reside there. This study
assesses changes in the living experience of residents of a suburban New Urbanist
environment located in Eugene, Oregon, relative to their living experience in their
previous residential environment. Findings reveal that respondents drive less for some but
not all types of trips. There are no significant changes in sense of community. Changes in
housing density and land-use mix are found associated with driving behavior change. Change in the enjoyment of the walking environment is found associated with changes in levels of resident interaction and feelings of sense of community.
