Character counts

The findings in this report point to the value of older buildings, blocks, and neighborhoods within the urban landscape. These are places where development has occurred incrementally, over many decades, resulting in a texture, richness, and distinctiveness that we call character. Blocks in high Character Score neighborhoods are lined with smaller, mixed-aged buildings with many older structures still in use. This variety of building vintages and types provides space for a diverse and dense mix of residents and uses. Local businesses thrive in these neighborhoods and the streets are full of activity, day and night.

There was a time when blocks like these were defined as blighted and even targeted for demolition through urban renewal. The Atlas of ReUrbanism provides the data to show that we can now, finally, rewrite the formulas about what makes a successful city. Instead of fodder for the bulldozer, these blocks of older, smaller buildings should be seen as valuable assets and stewarded carefully. As urban leaders, policy makers, and advocates consider future directions for their cities, the Atlas of ReUrbanism suggests some key implications to consider in guiding changes to urban buildings and blocks.