Social Capital and Integrated Communities

Abstract

Separation of land uses in the post-World War II era saw the development of communities made only of residences. Yet, when properly planned, activities such as working, shopping, sitting at a café, visiting a gym can take place in neighborhoods to increase walkability and contribute to the place’s social sustainability. Woven into the residents’ lives, those activities make most of their daily trips. Studies show that one-third of all daily trips are work related, 24 % are for shopping, school or visiting religious institutions, and the remaining 35 % are for either recreation or personal business. This chapter begins by discussing issues related to social capital and focuses on incorporating nonresidential spaces into neighborhoods. By investigating traditional living patterns, the chapter aims to offer strategies for creating mixed-use, transit-oriented neighborhoods.