American Institute of Certified Planners (AICP) Practice Exam

Why is Radburn significant?

1. It was the first American New Town

2. It highlighted the influence of the Garden City movement

3. Both A and B

4. It was designed by Frederick Law Olmsted Sr.

The correct answer is: Both A and B

Radburn is significant primarily because it embodies key principles from both the American New Town movement and the Garden City movement. As a planned community established in the 1920s in New Jersey, Radburn was among the earliest examples of the New Town concept in the United States. This movement sought to create self-contained communities that combined residential, commercial, and recreational areas in a way that minimized reliance on automobiles and promoted community interaction. Moreover, Radburn was heavily influenced by the Garden City movement, which advocated for the integration of green spaces within urban environments to enhance the quality of life. The design of Radburn featured extensive parks, pedestrian paths, and a network of residential areas that encouraged a harmonious relationship between nature and community. While Frederick Law Olmsted Sr. is a prominent figure in American landscape architecture, he was not the designer of Radburn, which diminishes the relevance of that aspect in this context. Therefore, the significance of Radburn lies in its dual role as an early example of both a New Town and a manifestation of Garden City ideals, making both elements essential to understanding its historical impact.