American Institute of Certified Planners (AICP) Practice Exam

Which of the following features characterized the design of the new town of Columbia, MD?

1. Single family homes

2. Neighborhood clusters

3. Tall skyscrapers

4. Shopping malls

The correct answer is: Neighborhood clusters

The design of Columbia, Maryland, is characterized by the concept of neighborhood clusters, which reflects a focus on community and accessibility. These clusters are designed to promote a sense of belonging and support social interaction by grouping residential areas around shared amenities such as parks, schools, and community centers. This planning approach aims to create a more cohesive and walkable environment, encouraging residents to engage with one another and develop a robust community lifestyle. The emphasis on neighborhood clusters in Columbia aligns with the principles of New Urbanism, which advocate for mixed-use developments and pedestrian-friendly design. This is particularly important in a new town development, where planners aimed to create an intuitive layout conducive to community living, rather than isolating residential units in a sprawling, non-integrated manner. In contrast, while single-family homes are part of Columbia’s housing options, they do not encapsulate the overarching design philosophy that emphasizes clusters. Tall skyscrapers do not represent Columbia's design, as the new town concept typically favors lower-density, human-scaled buildings. Shopping malls do exist but are not a defining feature of Columbia; instead, local shopping areas that serve community needs more effectively fit the overall neighborhood cluster design ethos.