American Institute of Certified Planners (AICP) Practice Exam

What was the main criticism presented by Jane Jacobs in her 1961 book?

1. Effects of pesticides on health

2. Urban renewal practices

3. Local governance issues

4. Land use laws

The correct answer is: Urban renewal practices

Jane Jacobs, in her seminal 1961 book "The Death and Life of Great American Cities," primarily critiqued urban renewal practices. She observed that many urban renewal projects were destructive to the very fabric of urban life. Jacobs argued that these policies tended to ignore the complexities and organic nature of city neighborhoods, often displacing residents and small businesses without creating viable alternatives. Her focus was on the importance of community dynamics, mixed-use developments, and the role of sidewalks and street life in fostering vibrant neighborhoods. Jacobs championed grassroots urban planning, which considers the voices and needs of local residents, contrasting sharply with the top-down approaches seen in many urban renewal efforts of her time. Her insights have had a lasting impact on urban planning, advocating for design that nurtures community interaction and supports local economies.