American Institute of Certified Planners (AICP) Practice Exam

Where did construction begin in 1947 for a significant post-war housing development?

1. Park Forest, Illinois

2. Reston, Virginia

3. Greenhills, Ohio

4. Cincinnati, Ohio

The correct answer is: Park Forest, Illinois

Construction for a significant post-war housing development began in 1947 in Park Forest, Illinois. This community was one of the first planned suburban developments in the United States, created to address the housing shortage that followed World War II. The design of Park Forest incorporated modern planning principles, emphasizing livability and community amenities. It was developed with the vision of providing affordable housing for returning veterans and their families, making it a noteworthy example of post-war urban planning efforts. The choice of Park Forest as a site for this development was influenced by the need for mass-produced housing that could accommodate a growing population seeking better living conditions outside urban centers. This approach reflected broader trends in American suburbanization during the mid-20th century, as it was common for communities to spring up to meet the needs of new residents in the post-war era.