American Institute of Certified Planners (AICP) Practice Exam

What aspect of the City Beautiful movement led to a decline in popularity?

1. Increased interest in rural living

2. Growth of skyscrapers in major cities

3. Awareness of corruption in urban planning

4. Focus on environmental issues

The correct answer is: Awareness of corruption in urban planning

The decline in popularity of the City Beautiful movement can be attributed to the growing awareness of corruption in urban planning during the early 20th century. As the movement aimed to address urban problems by introducing grandiose designs and beautification efforts, it also inadvertently highlighted the issues of political corruption and inefficiency associated with urban governance at that time. As communities became more critical of the planning process and the motivations behind certain projects, it sparked a desire for equity and transparency in planning practices, leading to diminished support for the ideals of the City Beautiful movement. The other aspects mentioned in the choices, while relevant in broader social contexts, did not directly address the core issues that contributed to the decline in the City Beautiful movement's popularity. For example, the increased interest in rural living reflects changing demographics and lifestyles but does not specifically counter the principles that the City Beautiful movement espoused. Similarly, the growth of skyscrapers in major cities or a focus on environmental issues can be seen as separate trends that developed independently from the movement, rather than reasons for its decline.