American Institute of Certified Planners (AICP) Practice Exam

What was the focus of the New Towns program initiated by the Resettlement Administration?

1. Redeveloping urban areas

2. Creating new cities based on garden city principles

3. Restricting suburban growth

4. Developing industrial zones

The correct answer is: Creating new cities based on garden city principles

The New Towns program initiated by the Resettlement Administration primarily aimed at creating new cities based on garden city principles. This approach was rooted in the idea of developing self-contained communities that integrated residential, commercial, and recreational spaces, along with ample green areas. By following garden city principles, the program sought to provide a healthier living environment by reducing urban congestion and improving access to nature. This initiative was part of a broader response to the economic and social challenges of the Great Depression, promoting an ideal of community living that balanced human needs with environmental considerations. The focus on creating new urban spaces allowed for more comprehensive planning and a more sustainable approach to housing and urban development at the time.