Variations
Density
Since density is one of the most important aspects of eco-city
design, I've made the city as dense as I think is reasonable. The
gardens are certainly small by suburban standards, but this is offset somewhat by
the very large open spaces surrounding the districts.
However it might not be necessary to build to quite this density.
And it's much easier to dial density down than it is to increase it.
But even keeping to the parameters laid out here, a few lower density
areas should be included for greater diversity.
This can be done by expanding the boundaries of some of the districts.
Note that districts cannot be extended along the trolleybus line
unless other districts are made smaller, and each district needs to
remain distinct from it's neighbours.
Imperfect Circles
Each district has thus far been drawn as a perfect circle, but this
is more for reasons of simplicity than a design choice.
In reality, each district would be shaped by the local geography
somewhat. And jagged edges will lead to more interesting streets
within.
Some districts could even be built to a grid pattern, rather than
circular with radial streets.
Existing Cities
Car-lite districts could also be used to expand our existing cities.
They would be built as close to the city centre as possible whilst
still maintaining some green space around them, and
would be connected to that centre with high quality public transport.
These 'eco-suburbs' should still have their own shops, a primary
school, etc. But their residents will also have easy access to the
services that only a larger city can provide.
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