In her recent op-ed for Next City, Erin Caldwell highlights the importance of mixed-use in neighborhoods and how it contributes to walkability. Caldwell argues that a diverse range of businesses and services is essential for thriving communities.
Caldwell emphasizes that a neighborhood filled with businesses that do not meet the daily needs of residents can be just as detrimental to walkability as one without any businesses at all. She suggests that cities can shape development through their zoning codes to encourage the presence of useful businesses in residential or mixed-use areas while restricting non-useful businesses to industrial or commercial districts.
To enforce these new zoning laws, objective measures such as the number of in-person transactions or the presence of amenities like public restrooms and seating could be created. Additionally, accessory commercial units attached to residential units could be introduced as a way to enrich mixed-use communities.
According to Caldwell, retail establishments play a significant role in community building by serving as ‘town squares’ where neighbors can gather and interact, fostering a sense of community. By creating spaces that encourage repeat visits from residents, businesses can help strengthen relationships between neighbors and businesses, contributing to the overall fabric of the community.