Trevor B

Wait till you see what crafty urban planners are trying to slip into your community! "15-minute city" might be one of the most misunderstood bits of planning jargon I've ever encountered. Here's a short list of the type of outcomes you might expect to sneak in the US as part of this trojan horse campaign: Healthy Haven: The neighborhood is buzzing with active individuals who joyfully walk and ride bikes because it’s too easy not to. Anxiety, depression, diabetes, obesity, heart disease, chronic pain all go down. Sidewalk Serenity: There’s a tranquil ambiance where cars are optional guests. The absence of constant traffic noise creates a peaceful environment to unwind, be outdoors, and engage with other humans. Bike Bonanza: With the skyrocketing popularity of electric bicycles, running errands and commuting becomes a breeze, making everyday tasks easier and more enjoyable. Community Connections: Walkable, bikeable neighborhoods foster a strong sense of community, as residents frequently interact. Neighbors become friends, creating a tight-knit social fabric. Greener and Cleaner: With reduced car dependency, you’re enjoying what feels like a luxury—more open natural space and cleaner air. Budget Boost: Now that you were able to go from 3 to 2 cars in the household, you’re saving $10,000 per year. A walk-friendly, bike-friendly neighborhood (ahem, 15-minute neighborhood) is a wealth creator. Thriving Local Businesses: The local economy flourishes because “buy local” is the easy and obvious choice, not just a slogan. Stress-Free Mobility: Everything is so close! Remember the before-days when corner markets and restaurants were required by law to be in different zones from houses? Crazy. Now you’ve got shorter travel distances, even if you do opt for a car. _ Instead of dismissing 15-minute opponents as kooks, ask them friendly questions about their likes and dislikes. I guarantee you’ll find shared interests, and they’ll probably end up supporting the basics of a 15-minute city even if they insist on using a different term.