THE WAY IT COULD BE 
the traditional pattern
with an ecological underlay

The third map shows how the area might look thirty years from now if the land were to be developed more sustainably. The urbanised area (pink) has expanded to cover much of the land; however, large areas of open space (green) have been preserved, and valuable community linkages have been maintained or enhanced. A new interconnected grid of residential streets has been added to the pre-existing agricultural grid. With this new interconnected system, additional traffic can be carried with very little widening of existing roads. Virtually all homes are within walking distance of a neighbourhood commercial centre (clusters of two to four small black squares representing commercial buildings). Major shopping and employment centres are located astride major transit ways which are also within walking distance of practically all homes.  These commercial centres serve nearby residents as well as those from the surrounding districts which are connected by the transit line. 

All of the pre-existing streams and their associated natural habitats have been saved, and new drainage corridors have been extended into the heart of each neighbourhood. The natural drainage/stream system (green) provides an alternative transportation network for pedestrians and bicycles that connects each part of the community.  All residents are within a short walk of natural areas where healthy and unique ecosystems are protected, and non-point source pollution has been drastically reduced; per capita use of the automobile is reduced by up to half as walking, biking, and transit use have become safe, efficient and pleasant alternatives for all.  In addition, the provision of  inexpensive overland

Click map region to view detail

drainage in association with the recreation system means lower, shared costs and a more efficient system.