American Institute of Certified Planners (AICP) Practice Exam

Who was the most significant contributor in shaping the New York Region with the development of 400 miles of parkways?

1. Robert Moses

2. Jane Jacobs

3. Daniel Burnham

4. Lewis Mumford

The correct answer is: Robert Moses

The most significant contributor in shaping the New York Region with the development of 400 miles of parkways was Robert Moses. He was a powerful figure in urban planning during the mid-20th century and played a pivotal role in the expansion of the city’s infrastructure, including the creation of a vast network of parkways. His vision emphasized automobile accessibility, leading to the construction of parkways intended to connect and beautify the suburban areas surrounding New York City. Moses also believed that these parkways would encourage recreational use and provide residents with access to parks and green spaces. His influence extended beyond just parkways; he was involved in numerous projects that transformed the urban landscape, including bridges, tunnels, and public housing, firmly establishing his legacy in urban planning history. This impressive network of parkways not only facilitated transit but also shaped the development patterns of the region, influencing how neighborhoods and communities were connected to one another. While Jane Jacobs is celebrated for her advocacy of community-focused urban planning and critique of Moses’s methods, and figures such as Daniel Burnham and Lewis Mumford contributed important ideas to urban planning, Moses's direct impact on the physical infrastructure of New York through parkway development was unmatched.