Land use is the most difficult thing to change but it alone solves the biggest problems associated with sprawl.

Local government should encourage development with train stations at the center of town “districts”. Buildings closest to the station are attached and average four stories high. Shopping, residential and office space is intermingled. Streets are narrow and car free in the innermost center of town.

Open plazas at intersections will draw people to meet and dine outside of local restaurants.

Density can decrease moving outward to include some single family homes if desired. Strict town limits approximately .5 miles from the station are enforced to ensure residents can easily get around on foot or by bike.

Modern building techniques (sound insulation, etc.) ensure people can live in close proximity peacefully. Lots of green space in the town and around its borders encourages healthy living.

Car parking or sharing facilities at the town limits allow residents who must travel by car to do so.

This new type of town would attract people who work in the city, parents who want a safe car-free environment for their kids, elderly people who don’t drive, and people who desire a lively city-like environment without living in a “big” city.