WHAT? TAKE AWAY THE CUL-DE-SAC? HAVE THEY LOST THEIR MIND?
Apparently this is a serious movement in sub-diviison planning. I've heard rumors. I've seen hints in news reports of new ideas from planners for new communities or sub-divisions. More communities with roads connecting to surrounding older neighborhoods. Fewer and fewer single entry communities with perimeter conservation areas. Block grid designs and fewer or no cul-de-sacs and circles.
Virginia is taking aim at one of the most enduring symbols of suburbia: the cul-de-sac. I've seen other news reports of similar acts by planners across the country.
The positive features of the newly designed communities with through street connecting to older neighborhoods will be quicker access to shopping areas and transportation alternatives. Of course, the planners don't mention that these new designs will also encourage speeding. If the uniqueness of the cul-de-sac is gone, home owners will either be faced with automobiles through or several speed bumps in every block.
From my experience, the most desirable lots in the above site plan would be lots 5, 6, 7, 9, 12, 13, and 14. They will have a lot premium when the first lots are sold and will be more attractive and offer more value to buyers and sellers on resale.
So, I suppose with the downsizing of lot sizes to permit more build-able lots in each new home development, the cul-de-sac lots will also become a thing of the past. They will, however, demand a premium for some time to come with families with children who wish to reduce traffic in front of their home.
So long cul-de-sac old friend.
Courtesy, Lenn Harley, Broker, Homefinders.com, 800-711-7988, E-mail.
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