American Institute of Certified Planners (AICP) Practice Exam

Which New Town is associated with features like overlapping communities?

1. Reston, VA

2. Columbia, MD

3. Levittown, NY

4. Park Forest, IL

The correct answer is: Reston, VA

Reston, Virginia, is well-known for its innovative approach to community design, which includes the concept of overlapping communities. This idea revolves around creating a cohesive, integrated environment where residential, commercial, and recreational spaces are interconnected, encouraging interaction among different groups and fostering a sense of belonging. Reston's planned community emphasizes diverse living options and public spaces, promoting social engagement and accessibility. The development strategically blends different community elements to create a vibrant environment where various demographics and interests can coexist. This approach reflects principles of New Urbanism, aiming to enhance walkability, accessibility, and community interaction. While other options like Columbia, Levittown, and Park Forest have unique characteristics and histories, they do not exemplify the concept of overlapping communities to the same extent as Reston. For example, Levittown is often associated with post-World War II suburbanization, characterized by uniform housing developments rather than the integration of distinct community elements.