American Institute of Certified Planners (AICP) Practice Exam

Where was the most notable example of suburban development during the period of suburbanization from 1860-1870?

1. Chicago, Illinois

2. Riverside, Illinois

3. Washington, D.C.

4. Los Angeles, California

The correct answer is: Riverside, Illinois

The most notable example of suburban development during the period of suburbanization from 1860-1870 is Riverside, Illinois. Riverside is recognized for its innovative planning and design, which was conceived by landscape architect Frederick Law Olmsted and his partner Calvert Vaux. They aimed to create a harmonious community that blended nature with residential living, establishing a model for future suburban developments. Riverside's layout included curvilinear streets that followed the natural contours of the land, a feature that was quite unique at the time and represented a departure from the traditional grid patterns of urban areas. This approach not only enhanced aesthetics but also aimed to promote a sense of community, with green spaces and parks integral to its design. The development of Riverside set a precedent for suburban planning, showing how areas outside of city centers could be effectively designed to accommodate residential life while considering environmental factors. Other options, while significant in their own right, do not encapsulate the same pioneering spirit of suburban development during this specific time frame as Riverside does. For instance, Chicago and Washington, D.C. were more established urban environments with less focus on suburban principles in the 1860s and 1870s. Los Angeles, though influential later, did not feature the same concentrated