American Institute of Certified Planners (AICP) Practice Exam

Who built the American "Greenbelt" towns in the 1930s?

1. The City Housing Corporation

2. The Resettlement Administration of the US Dept of Agriculture

3. The Dept of Housing and Urban Development

4. The PWA Housing Division

The correct answer is: The Resettlement Administration of the US Dept of Agriculture

The construction of the American "Greenbelt" towns in the 1930s was a significant undertaking spearheaded by the Resettlement Administration of the US Department of Agriculture. This initiative aimed to provide affordable housing and promote community living in response to the economic hardships of the Great Depression. The "Greenbelt" towns were designed as planned communities with a focus on green spaces, agricultural surroundings, and a balance between urban and rural living. The Resettlement Administration was instrumental in this project, advocating for architectural designs and planning concepts that sought to enhance the quality of life for residents, encourage sustainable practices, and foster a sense of community. The other options represent organizations and agencies that had different functions or missions during that era. The City Housing Corporation, for instance, was involved in housing development but was not specifically responsible for the Greenbelt towns. The Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD) was established much later, in 1965, and thus had no role in the 1930s initiatives. Similarly, the Public Works Administration (PWA) Housing Division was focused on public works and infrastructure rather than the specific development of Greenbelt towns.