Arizona Urbanism, part 2:

Recommendations

Executive Summary

Arizona’s urban landscape is evolving, with many existing development models already incorporating strong design principles. However, there are still significant opportunities to enhance community integration, pedestrian accessibility, and transit-oriented development. This report evaluates current best practices and proposes strategies to further refine urban design, prioritizing mixed-use spaces, micro-transit networks, and pedestrian-friendly infrastructure. By rethinking arterial streets, repurposing underutilized commercial spaces, and promoting zoning reform, Arizona can create more sustainable, walkable communities. These recommendations serve as a blueprint for fostering connectivity, reducing car dependency, and enhancing the overall urban experience.

Introduction

Urban development in Arizona has been rapidly evolving, with many new projects already implementing strong design principles. However, there are still critical opportunities to refine these approaches to better balance aesthetics, community interaction, and infrastructure efficiency. This report examines existing models and proposes strategies to enhance pedestrian access, micro-transit integration, and mixed-use developments to foster vibrant, connected communities.

Principles

Integrating new developments seamlessly with existing urban fabric
Prioritizing both privacy and community engagement
Expanding pedestrian-friendly infrastructure and micro-transit options
Reducing reliance on car-centric planning in favor of mixed-use, walkable spaces

Architectural and Urban Layout Recommendations

Existing Development Models in Arizona

Arizona already features many promising urban models. A large number of apartment complexes are designed in clusters of low-rise buildings, with interior units accessible via footpaths that connect to parking lots. This setup fosters a pedestrian-friendly environment within the community, supporting both accessibility and social engagement. Increasingly, these developments are being built at six stories and higher, demonstrating their scalability for denser urban living. As this trend continues, optimizing connectivity and pedestrian access should remain a priority to ensure these communities remain walkable and transit-accessible.

A new take on an old model, these new townhome's front door face a tree lined pedestrian path

Pedestrian and Micro-Transit Access

Pedestrian access and micro-transit options should be integrated more deliberately into new and existing developments. Expanding dedicated footpaths, protected bike lanes, and micro-transit hubs will reduce dependency on automobiles for short trips. Many of Arizona’s zoning regulations still limit the inclusion of businesses within residential areas—reforming these policies to allow small commercial spaces within apartment clusters would create walkable, self-sustaining neighborhoods where residents can access daily essentials without needing to drive.

Flush-Face Design with Common Courtyards

Flush-face urban designs, such as the Sonoran-style abodes in Tucson, demonstrate how buildings positioned directly on the sidewalk can create an active and engaging streetscape. These developments balance privacy with community through large shared courtyards in the rear, which offer semi-private spaces for residents while maintaining a strong street presence. A similar approach can be observed in cul-de-sac layouts in Tempe, where buildings are grouped in blocks of three with internal common areas accessible only to residents. This layout encourages both neighborhood interaction and pedestrian-friendly streets.

A view into a shared courtyard in Tucson's historic Barrio Viejo

Repurposing Strip Malls into Traditional Plazas

Arizona’s landscape is dotted with strip malls, many of which are underutilized and designed around vast parking lots. These spaces present prime opportunities for redevelopment into pedestrian-oriented plazas with a mix of retail, dining, and residential units. Parking reductions would free up space for courtyards, walkways, and communal gathering areas, transforming these outdated commercial hubs into vibrant community centers. Additionally, larger lots could accommodate mixed-use developments that integrate housing with commercial spaces, further enhancing walkability and reducing the need for car travel.

Rethinking Arterial Streets and Pedestrian Barriers

Arizona’s reliance on arterial streets as the primary arteries of movement has resulted in dangerous roadways that encourage high-speed traffic on surface streets. This approach should be reconsidered, presenting an excellent opportunity for future rail alignments. By shifting focus away from arterial streets and toward more human-scaled transportation networks, cities can create safer and more accessible environments for pedestrians and cyclists.

Summary

Micro-transit infrastructure, such as protected bike lanes and dedicated e-scooter pathways, should be prioritized to provide alternative mobility options. Additionally, many residential areas suffer from poor pedestrian connectivity due to walls and barriers between adjacent apartment communities. Removing these obstructions and creating direct walking paths between neighborhoods would significantly enhance walkability, making daily travel safer and more convenient.

Implementation Strategies

Reforming zoning laws to allow for mixed-use developments in residential areas
Redirecting funding toward micro-transit and pedestrian infrastructure
Introducing policies that encourage the repurposing of strip malls into community hubs
Exploring light rail and other transit-oriented development along key corridors

Conclusion

Arizona’s urban development is evolving, but further refinements are needed to maximize the potential of existing and future developments. By prioritizing pedestrian access, reducing reliance on arterial streets, integrating micro-transit infrastructure, and repurposing underutilized commercial spaces, cities can create more livable, sustainable environments. These recommendations aim to foster stronger communities where people can navigate their surroundings safely and efficiently without total dependence on automobiles. Future research should explore additional incentives for developers to adopt these principles while ensuring accessibility for all residents.

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