Tuesday, January 25, 2011
Saturday, January 15, 2011
Design Inspiration:
Nice layout, but i think the architecture is BORING. Better facade would bring it to happy town.
Maybe a little to modern for Parshall. Do you have to own a prius, wear arcterix, a satchel and square toed shoes? i am thinking YES therefore I am thinking NO.
NICE: I want to lay on the grass and possibly play a little catch.
Again, a little too modern but nice site layout ideas. I like the bike connectivity.
My FAVORITE wish it was a better rendering. but. the architecture and the outdoor space is great. I would like to live here, it is cold in North Dakota and this design does a great job of blending: car/pedestrian/living.
NICE. I like the architecture. The un-built isnt wonderful and the buildings are connected... but... I guess that brings down cost?..."The courtyard housing typology allows new residents to move in while respecting the established patterns of neighborhood development and lifestyle."
http://www.courtyardhousing.org/entriesinner.html
http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Mayberry
http://www.mvrdv.nl/#/projects/466thenaturalneighborhood
Thursday, January 13, 2011
Sunday, January 2, 2011
ROUGH draft
abstract
Globally, nationally and locally many rural centers have, and are, being subjected to a sort of disinvestment similar to that of failing urban centers. These Rural areas, although starkly different in terms of scale and adjacency, share common goals and challenges with their urban counterparts. Currently, there is a multitude of data related to urban disinvestment, and theory on how to solve the problem. This Thesis leverages both urban theory and new housing technology to begin answering the question of how to make rural communities; especially Parshall ND, vibrant.
problem statement.
Across the globe rural areas are slowly losing a war of attrition. Largely due to advances in production technology, the cumulative effects of out-migration, and relatively higher levels of pay in urban areas; small agrarian centers are becoming less attractive as places for development. With negligible development many small communities are finding it difficult to maintain both population, and the services required for remaining individuals. This multifaceted dilemma of emigration translates into disinvestment; some of which cannot be remedied. Even so, some rural centers including Parshall, still have the possibility of being viable, but many times, community and quality of life; two of the small town’s most amiable characteristics, find it difficult to coexist with constrictive, antiquated, or non-existant policy of spending and community development.
typology:
Community Development
Claims:
By implementing aspects of urban theory, expanding upon the attractive
socioeconomic features of the small town, and responding
to specific local characteristics, Parshall, and other well situated
rural communities can ensure a vibrant future.
premises:
The general structure of a small town is well suited to walkable design. It has been proven that this perspective regarding the function of infrasturcture fosters vibrant, efficient and viable community
centers.
To those susceptible to the detrimental elements of urban living, small communities can present a comfortable and secure place to live.
In many rural centers cost of living is relatively low when compared to similar development patterns; these factors make comfort and stability possible.
Parshall’s unique characteristics provide authentic Identity and the opportunity for greater pride among its residents.
The current physical, economic, and social situation of communities within the adjacency of the baken formation presents the opportunity for these communities invest in the future.
conclusion
There is a correlation between the hollowing core in urban America
and the current challenges faced in rural communities. By borrowing from the multitude of data related to urban issues and capitalizing on unique aspects of rural living small towns such as Parshall poise themselves for the future.
thesis proposal: narrative
It is evident that a recent and stark shift of has occurred in our way of living as relics of the past are mingled with the standards of the present. Elements of rural places still exist but not at the scale that was once necessary to fuel our booming country. These places are smaller, atrophied due to increased efficiency of production and the draw of urban life. Can pieces of places can carry out the necessary function the whole once did? The digestion of small town America is not only difficult on its residents but also for our nation, there is valuable shared history lost in the process. Regions and the places within them are required to change in order to be viable, but lessons of our nations past have shown that change without foresight is a recipe for destruction. There are many factors to weigh and difficult choices to make in this process because capitalistic economy is as ruthless as the law of nature. There is competition for resources, industry and ultimately the population to remain viable. Parshall, ND like many other similarly sized towns of the state is within this struggle. To survive these communities must find a way of conforming to the current economy and way of life technology has imposed, but, must not lose who they are in the process.
user/client description:
Parshall, ND
Demographics
population: 1,073
Race:
Native American 54.5%
White 41.8%
Other 3.8%
median age: 32.7
School enrollment: 282
Educational Attainment:
No H.S. Degree 26.9%
Highschool diploma 26.9%
Some college 22.0%
Associates degree 9.0%
Bachelors degree 12.1%
Graduate or Professional 3.1%
Housing:
Owner-occupied housing units 56.9%
Median value $36,700
Renter-occupied housing units 43.1%
Median rent $338
Earnings:
Median family income $27,222
Below poverty level 21.6%
major project elements
New Infrastructure:
Recent additions and future growth necessitate updates to existing elements.
Housing:
Quality affordable living spaces are needed currently, manufactured
and stick, these must be designed and oriented in a manner that weaves old and new.
Community connectivity:
To promote healthy growth community connections that support various modes of travel will be developed.
Town Center:
To maintain efficiency and social vitality a healthy community
core must exist and lend itself to activity, commerce, and communication.
Community Nodes:
Secondary informal community gathering points such as schools, town features and public space.
site information
region:
upper midwest
site:
Located in North-central North Dakota 133 mile north northwest drive from Bismarck, within the Fort Berthold reservation, Parshall, ND is positioned on the periphery of the Bakken oil formation; a geological
formation known for energy and everything that goes along with its extraction. New Town; a community
of similar size and circumstance, located 19 miles west north west is Parshall’s main competition
for residents, tourism and industry. Lake Sakakawea’s Van Hook Arm; a popular fishing and recreation destination, is located nine miles to the west, situated between Parshall and New Town.
project emphasis
This project will focus on fusing urbanist ideals, modular low cost housing, and the amiable aspects of rural living in order to update the built environment so that it may better cultivate vibrancy and interconnectivity
among the diverse population of Parshall North Dakota.
thesis program
theoretical premis research:
Rural communities and the thinking of Leon Krier
“If one day, for some mysterious reason all the buildings, settlements, suburbs and structures built after 1945... vanished from the face of the earth, would we mourn their loss?” In Architecture choice or fate Leon Krier lays out a theoretical argument for why and how the stucture of human settlement has devolved to its current state. The concepts discussed in this volume are geared toward an urban setting, though, a large amount of Krier’s Design theory is relevant to small communites, as this is the pattern of development he advocates for within the urban context. In the words of Krier “a city is not an accident but the result of coherent visions and aims” This statement is universal, and within the context of rural America vision and goals are perhaps more important than anywhere else. It is helpful to conceptualize small towns through the lens of politics: If rural communites were a nation unto themselves these entities would be considered a direct democracy, understandably, in many cases this is how they function. Because of the mass availabilty of political expression there is a tangible power wielded by each citizen and subsequently the possibility of unfocused fluidity. Due to personal views and their possibility of imposing relative chaos, it is imperative
for small communities to develope a clear and concise vision from which to guide future decisions. This Vision should not hamper social vibrancy and expression (two major strengths of rural communities) only provide neccessary aim and coherence. The tenuous relationship between vibrancy and focus (two central concepts to successful community) is well understood by Krier. He attempts to solve this dilema by advocating for a resonable and thoughtful compromise between the polar ieals. An elegantly sympol quote from Krier exemplifies this theoretical perspective. “Public space is a void, a structured and structuring void, with specific dimensions, forms and characteristics.” In the eyes of Krier vibrancy and focus are not mutially exclusive, to him focus and structure informs vibrancy; not heavy handedly, but very much like low organs evoke purposeful communal expression among baseball fans. Placed within the narrowed context of street design this principle is illustrated by “un-focused, focused” and “as corridor, as place”. Below is Kriers illustration of the difference between streetscapes executed through bleak utility, and those with utility that considers humanity. The layout of the street is a means to an obvious end; efficient movement, but Krier understands perhaps better than anyone, that the value of something is not only found in its end. True value is found when weighing the entire process. This concept of community design is simple but very easily and often overlooked when viewing through the perspective of utilitarianism. Even the most ardant utilitarian would understand, after years of accumulated experiential attrocities, that the bleak functionality of placeless development has limited utility. When considering the Ideas of Krier one finds that his concepts and fight for “Architectural Humanism”, although crafted as a responce to current trends of urban growth, have remarkable relevance to the design of rural communities. The factors he lists as pivotal to urban development are actually elemental to the small town. Where a large city goes through hardship and bleakness without “Architectural Humanism” a small town lacking the same ceases to exist. Vibrant public space is increadibly necessary to the overall vitality and existance of a small town. Given the capacity for and the general extent of travel within the routines of rural folk, It is not far outside the realm of possibility that these individuals would in fact go elsewhere for services; thus severely handicapping the community in which they live. Rural areas need to cultivate a compelling reason for individuals within the town to invest in that town; duty works but it only goes so far, people ultimately care about convenience, comfort and affordability. Therefore, the design and vision small towns follow is of utmost importance, the refinement of place and public spaces paramount.
Traditional Neighborhoods and the viability of Rural America:
Rural America was founded upon the Jeffersonian grid. These small communities are well served by a vision that continues to embrace and refine a ‘tried and true’ foundation for development. Responsible community development can be generated by the following flow: New or updated spaces and buildings infill within existing infrastructure, if no space exists; new development should follow the pattern of ‘Traditional Neighborhood Development’ and not the spread out suburban archetype, typified by large lots, inefficient infrastructure and high levels of necessary consumption and civic cost. Considering the perspective of Krier this view does not seem to exist upon an unsettled foundation. An assumption drawn from the previous study: ‘the effect of poor development patterns is inversly related to the size of the development’ becomes easier to justify when considering the stark facts of economics. According to the document Smart Growth & Conventional Suburban Development: Which Costs More? Traditional Neighborhood development reduces per unit infrastucture costs from 32-47%. These costs are felt much more accutely by the rural
community than a city that can spread out costs among a considerable resident base. According to the previously cited document, Traditional Neighborhood Development (TND) is composed of the following factors:
1. Compact form with a distinct edge yielding large contiguous preserved open space;
2. Mixing of land uses;
3. Complete neighborhoods proportioned generally according to 5 minutes walking distance;
4. Grid network of interconnected streets with short, walkable blocks and multiple route choices;
5. Alleys with garage access and rear garbage pickup;
6. On street parking & shared parking strategies to reduce parking lot size
7. Community parks, squares, and open spaces faced by the fronts of buildings and located within walking distance of residential homes.
INSERT ILLUSTRATION OF FRAMEWORK
“The variables discussed in the EPA report including
density, urban form, and impervious area led to a clear cost savings for TND infrastructure when compared with that of CSD (conventional suburban development). . .the intent of this study is not to imply that the comparative cost savings found here would necessarily be replicable in every situation. However, the EPA study demonstrated that the costs can always be measured and compared, and the results showed far greater TND infrastructure cost savings than expected when compared to conventional suburban infrastructure costs.” -Smart Growth & Conventional Suburban Development: Which Costs More? Generally rural communities do not deal with high levels of growth, but, this does not mean that buildings will not be updated and infrastructural improvements will not be made. Given the law of nature; ‘something must evolve to meet new challenges or suffer extinction’, it is necessary for these communities to adopt a vision congruent with each’s respective needs and the fluctuating impositions of it’s context. TND seems well suited to meet the requirement. Small towns are historically laid out in the TND manner; the infrastructure costs less, provides walkability and charm, access to nearby services, good public space, and ultimately fosters strong community ties.
When looking into the views of planners dealing with rural communities it becomes evedent that the case for increased regulation within these developments is justified. The following is a statement found on cyburbia.org a leading planning forum: “case in point, and I have 3 of these (problems) - the 3-4 generation family accumulating (refuse) all over the property, old trucks, tires, appliances, no gravel for the driveway, just mud; nobody bugs them for years. enter family of 4 settling down to Maine from a major metropolitan area, builds a nice stick-built shingle-style, quintessential Maine house, so nice... then after taking occupancy, upon hearing mad dogs barking, people yelling, Bud cans everywhere, comes into my office and (voices their complaints)” The comment speaks volumes to why rural communities need vision to guide leadership, not only in future matters but those related to present quality of life concerns. It is cruel that in some cases those with the greatest need secure the least help, but such is the case with planning in rural areas. One way TND works to remedy situations related to the above comment is by limiting the amount of private space available to negligent management. Apathetic management is another measurable factor within the greater economic viability of Small town America. Just like numerous other cases stated previously; a piece of a small whole is larger within a small entity than it is within a large entity. This fact holds true to disinvestment. Within a large settlement areas of blight are deleterious to the city as a whole, but, these areas can be quarantined and in effect, logically segmented from the whole. Within a small town there is no perceptible vacuous space within which to throw problem areas; however unfair, the weakest link reflects most poorly upon the next largest system, this system in a small town is the town itself.
Community and other marketable factors of Rural Towns
It is neccessary for leaders to understand the populations
needed to support certain services. An all too attractive pitfall for small communities is investing
resources in areas that the current community cannot support. If it is realized after-the-fact that an industry is not economically viable the community is dealt a traummatic, sometimes leathal blow as, generally, the sort of competition neccessary to overcome failure is not existant within these areas. Therefore, Small towns need to push for advancement in logical areas, those that play well into the hand they are dealt. “Research suggests that densities of seven units per acre or higher are needed to support a small corner store; a small supermarket requires 18 units per acre.” (Creating Great Communities) this statement may be gleaned from data related to larger developments; due to the relative lack of competition, rural services require slightly less density, although, there is a universal truth to the research. Services require a pool of consumers to provide neccessary day to day cash flow in order to remain feasible. The concept appears obvious but given the increadible difficulty start-up businesses have with proffitability, and the significance of these failures relative to the possible downfall of a community, it cannot be overstated. “Although less than seven percent of the county’s land area is high-density development, it generates 33 percent of the county’s real estate taxes” (Creating Great Communities) this is crucial to rural centers, they must create value and capitalize on their attractive, elemental features: three of which are community, identity and adjacency to nature; increased density benefits all of these features and likewise brings rural communities closer to solvency.
“subdivisions grow up without any town center, any corner store or any sense of community.”(Creating Great Neighborhoods) The scenario alluded to in the previous statement is not possible in functioning rural centers, and thus is a critical defensable characteristic for these communities to fall back on, and cultivate vitality from. Suburban developments struggle with creating true identity, and often fall prey to ‘manufactured individualism’. The few differences that are in favor of rural communities need to be expanded upon with ruthless precision, a town simply cannot compete with the city in a large number of areas; and it does not need to, as long as it capitalizes upon strengths.
Development of true community Identity
insert text here --->
community vs. urban alienation
“we find that urban residence is associated with percieved powerlessness... even when we adjust for sociodemographic characteristics, a small effect of urban residence on subjective powerlessness remains.” (A New Look at Urban Alienation) According to the previously stated article: “People who report living in a disordered neighborhood have significantly higher levels of perveived powerlessness, in small part because they lack social ties with neighbors”
(commentary on above text)
Adjacency to nature
As American culture has evolved nature and the outdoors have become less of an influence in our daily lives. Children are spending less time participating in natural play and more in structured activities. As stated in the introduction of Last Child in the Woods Richard Louv 2008 “Our society is teaching young people to avoid direct experience in nature. That lesson is delivered in schools, families, even organizations devoted to the outdoors, and codified into the legal and regulatory structures of many of our communities.” According to Louv most children today don’t experience the natural world the same way previous generations have. Louv breaks down the changing American perception of nature in terms of stages of the changing frontier. From the formation of the United States to the closing of the contiguous frontier in the late 1800’s Americans generally viewed nature through the lens of “direct utilitarianism”. During this period the wilderness was seen as something to be tamed, individuals were to battle the frontier and master the elements.
During this formative period in American history the relationship between the nation and the frontier did much to define our countries’ character. As the Frontier
closed in the late 1800’s popular culture began to romanticize ‘The Fontiersman’. Individuals such as Teddy Roosevelt and John Muir talked of the importance of nature and promoted the preservation of natural wonders. The actions of these individuals
and others created an environment that fostered and preserved an inextricable connection between Americans and the natural world.
In today’s connected, information driven world “romantic
attachment” seems to be slowly slipping and we are finding ourselves in a position of “electronic detachment”. According to Louv this detachment is facilitated by several factors the most significant of which are increasingly intellectualized views of nature and the growing urban population. In addition to the changing nature of day to day life a nation that once celebrated ‘rugged individualism’ and Emersonian
transcendentalism seems to be succeeding at making these powerful existential experiences less accessible. Fear of lawsuits and injury combined with well intentioned heavy handed parenting has drastically limited children’s access outdoor areas and natural play opportunities. This situation translates into more time spent in sterile environments utilizing electronics and other less creative forms of play. Authorities are beginning to quantify the coloquially held belief that ‘nature does children good’. Recent studies show an immutable correlation betwee children who are deficient in creative natural play and the likelihood of these individuals suffering from developmental issues, depression, ADHD and learning disabilities.
Although the vast majority of current research is related to nature and childhood there is the multitude
of worthwhile; albeit sentimental, writings of the 19th century American romantics devoted to defining the importance of nature in personal development, maintenance and fulfillment. Residents of rural America benefit from their adjacency to nature, this is, in many respects a major reason individuals immigrate to or justify being in sparsely populated areas. A central goal for small communities is to strike the right balance of Community, and protection of natural play opportunities. It is difficult to meet a compromise between two seemingly mutually exclusive characteristic but it is neccessary to the success of communities and the health of those who live within them.
Research on historic native development patterns?
COMMENTS ON COUNTERINTUITIVE COMPACT DEVELOPMENT IN RURAL CENTERS
Marketability of traditional development model in small communities
theoretical study synthesized.
Results from Typology Research:
The various typologies related to the design of and strategic plan for Parshall ND are as follows: Hybridized new urbanist style development or (TND) pattern, retrofitted for use with modular housing within the rural context, and The developmental framework set forth in ‘Beginning Again North Dakota’ (BAND)
Through the analysis of New Urbanist and TND style of development it became evident that there are certain qualities of these models that do not translate from the urban to rural context. That being said, underlying design sensitivities laid out in the previous analysis of; the writings of Leon Krier, research on TND and the case study for Orenco Station have universal utility. Significant areas of correlation include: the new urbanist ideal of open space creation, development of character, the necessary generation of critical mass/density at which local services and infrastructure are increasingly viable, and finally, the emphasis on humanistic/experiential qualities of the built environment. With the given analysis of the data it becomes quite clear that a retrofitted Traditional Style Development / New urbanism is far better suited to updating Parshall, ND than the sprawl archetype found in Casselton. Upon considering Strategic Plans covered within the case studies of Tower City and Wallhalla it became clear that the plans for these towns were executed quite differently, and rightfully so. Each community has different characteristics and BAND: (an extremely relevant document) presents a framework from which to cultivate the understanding and capitalization of unique elements within a rural community. Through the strategic plan it becomes evident that Walhalla: a town located in western North Dakota, has much more in common with Parshall than Tower City North Dakota, located in eastern ND. Despite the commonality of Tower City and Walhalla: similar size and region, the direct adjacency and history of these developments does much to form individuality as such, rural communities in search of increased vitality should not be painted with a broad brush, Parshall especially, cannot ignore
its uniqueness as a community if it does the solution found will be grossly inadequate.
historical context
Parshall ND is located in north central North dakota, on the periphery of the Fort Berthold Mandan Hidatsa Arikara (MHA) reservation. The MHA reservation has a past none too different from the quintessecial native american experience. To describe events with relative brevity: land was taken from the tribe slowly and deliberately until a static establishment was formed at ‘Like a Fish Hook Village’. Upon the completion of the Garrison Dam water innundated the remnants of the village and relocated the members of the tribe to higher ground. (more on relevant history specific to parshall) Western North Dakota, the region with the greatest influence upon West Central ND is currently in the midst of an expansive energy boom. This process requires a massive overhaul of existing infrastucture and injects inordinate amounts of capital and population into an otherwise spacely populated, range dominated region. This Influx although helpful to the overall state economy presents logistical challenges to and neccessitates sizeable investment within the affected region.
Currently Parshall ND has a significant racial mix of near 50, 50 Caucasian to Native American residents. This Racial divide along with the town’s location within the periphery of the reservation, the MHA affiliated tribe’s progressive stance, and the context of oil and gas development within the greater reservation helps to make Parshall, ND well situated for the development of a thoughtful and progressive design and strategic plan. Other Projects dealing with similar issues include: the stategic plans for Tower City and Walhalla ND covered briefly in the “case studies” protion of the document although a clear framework or study for the development of a Rural Community with the specific characteristics of Parshall, ND is not readily available.
case studies
Orenco Station
Orenco Station is a 156 acre area planned for 1,830 dwellings. The development has a gross density of about 12 dwellings per acre. Orenco Station is located in Hillboro, Oregon a community just west or Portland. The development consists of 9% open space, 37% residential, 24% commercial, 3% mixed use 2% civic/industry. Although this ‘town’ is located on the urban periphery what it strives to create is what a strong rural community needs in order to function, character, open space, relative density and subsequent community vitality. There will be less neccessary density as movement patterns are different and Parshall is not a bedroom community that needs to make public transit viable. It is helpful to contrast the ‘new urbanist’ style with what is neccessary for rural communities as there are things to be learned from data in the area of the relevant overlap.
Tower City, ND
Highlights of the strategic plan for Tower City, ND created using the
framework of “Beginning again North Dakota”
Goal 1: To create a good first impression by developing attractive and
welcoming areas for people to enjoy.
Improve the aesthetics of the I-94 exchange to invite interest in our community.
expand and enhance the city park...
increase pride and community through flowers and welcome banners...
Goal 2: Create a thriving business sector by preserving and fostering interest
in existing businesses while inviting new businesses
to our community
encourage support of local business...
support and increase interest in our community
Walhalla, ND
Highlights of the strategic plan for Tower City, ND created using the framework
of “Beginning again North Dakota”
VISION: Walhalla is a community...
- characterized by welcoming neighborhoods and belonging - that embraces
its heritage and beauty - that is well planned, environmentally sensitive, w/ equal access plentiful rec. and culture - with integrated technology utility and transport networks - developing partnerships of citizens, business & education communities for a stong base - that offers ample employment and business - encourages public involvement
Goal 1: stimulate and stabilize local economy
retain support and expand local businesses
support new industry and business
Goal 2: Increase tourism in the area
develop natural resources
improve first impression of the community
generate and support tourism business
adopt a business climate that capitalizes on tourism
develope advertising and marketing consistent with ongoing development
Goal 3: Improve city infrastucture
remove and refurbish building citywide
establish spring cleanup program
encourage ciry government to educate and enforce city ordinances
invite new businesses to build
create an airport
Casselton, ND
Is a town currently dealing with an influx of new housing. Due to its status as a bedroom community to Fargo and somewhat different economic class of user it is dealing with growth factors that are not truly representative of Parshall, ND. The current form of growth and the relative similarity of size between the two communities
are the factors to be considered. Casselton is currently a good example of small town growth gone wrong due to market pressures. Parshall would be well served by inacting a vision that does not have a place within it for this style of infrastructure. As stated previously, sprawl style development is more economically and socially damaging to the rural town than the suburb is to the city.
Goals for the Thesis Project
To create a functional document and visualization for parshall and its future.
To form a couple novel concepts related to the future of development on the reservation and rural areas.
To find a workable version of TND / New Urbanist style developmental design for Rural areas.
To eventually make catherine proud of me and revel in the glory of successful albeit delayed achievement
which will slightly soothe current wounded pride.
references
‘Architecture choice or fate’
-leon krier
‘Beginning Again North Dakota
An Asset Based Development Program for Rural Communities Using a Community Capitals Framework’
-Gary A. Goreham, Kathleen Tweeten, Coutney D Taylor and Brian Fier
North Dakota State University
‘A New Look at Urban Alienation: The Effect of Neighborhood Disorder on Percieved Powerlessness’
-Karlyn J. Geis, Catherine E. Ross
The Ohio State University
Creating Great Neighborhoods: Density In your community
-US EPA
Smart Growth & Conventional Suburban Development:
Which Costs More? An infrastructure case study completed for the EPA
-Johnathan Ford, PE
Morris Beacon Design
Last Child in the Woods: Saving Our Children From Nature-Deficit Disorder
-Richard Louv
Skinny Streets and Green Neighborhoods: Design for Environment and Community
-Cynthia Girling and Ronald Kellett
Globally, nationally and locally many rural centers have, and are, being subjected to a sort of disinvestment similar to that of failing urban centers. These Rural areas, although starkly different in terms of scale and adjacency, share common goals and challenges with their urban counterparts. Currently, there is a multitude of data related to urban disinvestment, and theory on how to solve the problem. This Thesis leverages both urban theory and new housing technology to begin answering the question of how to make rural communities; especially Parshall ND, vibrant.
problem statement.
Across the globe rural areas are slowly losing a war of attrition. Largely due to advances in production technology, the cumulative effects of out-migration, and relatively higher levels of pay in urban areas; small agrarian centers are becoming less attractive as places for development. With negligible development many small communities are finding it difficult to maintain both population, and the services required for remaining individuals. This multifaceted dilemma of emigration translates into disinvestment; some of which cannot be remedied. Even so, some rural centers including Parshall, still have the possibility of being viable, but many times, community and quality of life; two of the small town’s most amiable characteristics, find it difficult to coexist with constrictive, antiquated, or non-existant policy of spending and community development.
typology:
Community Development
Claims:
By implementing aspects of urban theory, expanding upon the attractive
socioeconomic features of the small town, and responding
to specific local characteristics, Parshall, and other well situated
rural communities can ensure a vibrant future.
premises:
The general structure of a small town is well suited to walkable design. It has been proven that this perspective regarding the function of infrasturcture fosters vibrant, efficient and viable community
centers.
To those susceptible to the detrimental elements of urban living, small communities can present a comfortable and secure place to live.
In many rural centers cost of living is relatively low when compared to similar development patterns; these factors make comfort and stability possible.
Parshall’s unique characteristics provide authentic Identity and the opportunity for greater pride among its residents.
The current physical, economic, and social situation of communities within the adjacency of the baken formation presents the opportunity for these communities invest in the future.
conclusion
There is a correlation between the hollowing core in urban America
and the current challenges faced in rural communities. By borrowing from the multitude of data related to urban issues and capitalizing on unique aspects of rural living small towns such as Parshall poise themselves for the future.
thesis proposal: narrative
It is evident that a recent and stark shift of has occurred in our way of living as relics of the past are mingled with the standards of the present. Elements of rural places still exist but not at the scale that was once necessary to fuel our booming country. These places are smaller, atrophied due to increased efficiency of production and the draw of urban life. Can pieces of places can carry out the necessary function the whole once did? The digestion of small town America is not only difficult on its residents but also for our nation, there is valuable shared history lost in the process. Regions and the places within them are required to change in order to be viable, but lessons of our nations past have shown that change without foresight is a recipe for destruction. There are many factors to weigh and difficult choices to make in this process because capitalistic economy is as ruthless as the law of nature. There is competition for resources, industry and ultimately the population to remain viable. Parshall, ND like many other similarly sized towns of the state is within this struggle. To survive these communities must find a way of conforming to the current economy and way of life technology has imposed, but, must not lose who they are in the process.
user/client description:
Parshall, ND
Demographics
population: 1,073
Race:
Native American 54.5%
White 41.8%
Other 3.8%
median age: 32.7
School enrollment: 282
Educational Attainment:
No H.S. Degree 26.9%
Highschool diploma 26.9%
Some college 22.0%
Associates degree 9.0%
Bachelors degree 12.1%
Graduate or Professional 3.1%
Housing:
Owner-occupied housing units 56.9%
Median value $36,700
Renter-occupied housing units 43.1%
Median rent $338
Earnings:
Median family income $27,222
Below poverty level 21.6%
major project elements
New Infrastructure:
Recent additions and future growth necessitate updates to existing elements.
Housing:
Quality affordable living spaces are needed currently, manufactured
and stick, these must be designed and oriented in a manner that weaves old and new.
Community connectivity:
To promote healthy growth community connections that support various modes of travel will be developed.
Town Center:
To maintain efficiency and social vitality a healthy community
core must exist and lend itself to activity, commerce, and communication.
Community Nodes:
Secondary informal community gathering points such as schools, town features and public space.
site information
region:
upper midwest
site:
Located in North-central North Dakota 133 mile north northwest drive from Bismarck, within the Fort Berthold reservation, Parshall, ND is positioned on the periphery of the Bakken oil formation; a geological
formation known for energy and everything that goes along with its extraction. New Town; a community
of similar size and circumstance, located 19 miles west north west is Parshall’s main competition
for residents, tourism and industry. Lake Sakakawea’s Van Hook Arm; a popular fishing and recreation destination, is located nine miles to the west, situated between Parshall and New Town.
project emphasis
This project will focus on fusing urbanist ideals, modular low cost housing, and the amiable aspects of rural living in order to update the built environment so that it may better cultivate vibrancy and interconnectivity
among the diverse population of Parshall North Dakota.
thesis program
theoretical premis research:
Rural communities and the thinking of Leon Krier
“If one day, for some mysterious reason all the buildings, settlements, suburbs and structures built after 1945... vanished from the face of the earth, would we mourn their loss?” In Architecture choice or fate Leon Krier lays out a theoretical argument for why and how the stucture of human settlement has devolved to its current state. The concepts discussed in this volume are geared toward an urban setting, though, a large amount of Krier’s Design theory is relevant to small communites, as this is the pattern of development he advocates for within the urban context. In the words of Krier “a city is not an accident but the result of coherent visions and aims” This statement is universal, and within the context of rural America vision and goals are perhaps more important than anywhere else. It is helpful to conceptualize small towns through the lens of politics: If rural communites were a nation unto themselves these entities would be considered a direct democracy, understandably, in many cases this is how they function. Because of the mass availabilty of political expression there is a tangible power wielded by each citizen and subsequently the possibility of unfocused fluidity. Due to personal views and their possibility of imposing relative chaos, it is imperative
for small communities to develope a clear and concise vision from which to guide future decisions. This Vision should not hamper social vibrancy and expression (two major strengths of rural communities) only provide neccessary aim and coherence. The tenuous relationship between vibrancy and focus (two central concepts to successful community) is well understood by Krier. He attempts to solve this dilema by advocating for a resonable and thoughtful compromise between the polar ieals. An elegantly sympol quote from Krier exemplifies this theoretical perspective. “Public space is a void, a structured and structuring void, with specific dimensions, forms and characteristics.” In the eyes of Krier vibrancy and focus are not mutially exclusive, to him focus and structure informs vibrancy; not heavy handedly, but very much like low organs evoke purposeful communal expression among baseball fans. Placed within the narrowed context of street design this principle is illustrated by “un-focused, focused” and “as corridor, as place”. Below is Kriers illustration of the difference between streetscapes executed through bleak utility, and those with utility that considers humanity. The layout of the street is a means to an obvious end; efficient movement, but Krier understands perhaps better than anyone, that the value of something is not only found in its end. True value is found when weighing the entire process. This concept of community design is simple but very easily and often overlooked when viewing through the perspective of utilitarianism. Even the most ardant utilitarian would understand, after years of accumulated experiential attrocities, that the bleak functionality of placeless development has limited utility. When considering the Ideas of Krier one finds that his concepts and fight for “Architectural Humanism”, although crafted as a responce to current trends of urban growth, have remarkable relevance to the design of rural communities. The factors he lists as pivotal to urban development are actually elemental to the small town. Where a large city goes through hardship and bleakness without “Architectural Humanism” a small town lacking the same ceases to exist. Vibrant public space is increadibly necessary to the overall vitality and existance of a small town. Given the capacity for and the general extent of travel within the routines of rural folk, It is not far outside the realm of possibility that these individuals would in fact go elsewhere for services; thus severely handicapping the community in which they live. Rural areas need to cultivate a compelling reason for individuals within the town to invest in that town; duty works but it only goes so far, people ultimately care about convenience, comfort and affordability. Therefore, the design and vision small towns follow is of utmost importance, the refinement of place and public spaces paramount.
Traditional Neighborhoods and the viability of Rural America:
Rural America was founded upon the Jeffersonian grid. These small communities are well served by a vision that continues to embrace and refine a ‘tried and true’ foundation for development. Responsible community development can be generated by the following flow: New or updated spaces and buildings infill within existing infrastructure, if no space exists; new development should follow the pattern of ‘Traditional Neighborhood Development’ and not the spread out suburban archetype, typified by large lots, inefficient infrastructure and high levels of necessary consumption and civic cost. Considering the perspective of Krier this view does not seem to exist upon an unsettled foundation. An assumption drawn from the previous study: ‘the effect of poor development patterns is inversly related to the size of the development’ becomes easier to justify when considering the stark facts of economics. According to the document Smart Growth & Conventional Suburban Development: Which Costs More? Traditional Neighborhood development reduces per unit infrastucture costs from 32-47%. These costs are felt much more accutely by the rural
community than a city that can spread out costs among a considerable resident base. According to the previously cited document, Traditional Neighborhood Development (TND) is composed of the following factors:
1. Compact form with a distinct edge yielding large contiguous preserved open space;
2. Mixing of land uses;
3. Complete neighborhoods proportioned generally according to 5 minutes walking distance;
4. Grid network of interconnected streets with short, walkable blocks and multiple route choices;
5. Alleys with garage access and rear garbage pickup;
6. On street parking & shared parking strategies to reduce parking lot size
7. Community parks, squares, and open spaces faced by the fronts of buildings and located within walking distance of residential homes.
INSERT ILLUSTRATION OF FRAMEWORK
“The variables discussed in the EPA report including
density, urban form, and impervious area led to a clear cost savings for TND infrastructure when compared with that of CSD (conventional suburban development). . .the intent of this study is not to imply that the comparative cost savings found here would necessarily be replicable in every situation. However, the EPA study demonstrated that the costs can always be measured and compared, and the results showed far greater TND infrastructure cost savings than expected when compared to conventional suburban infrastructure costs.” -Smart Growth & Conventional Suburban Development: Which Costs More? Generally rural communities do not deal with high levels of growth, but, this does not mean that buildings will not be updated and infrastructural improvements will not be made. Given the law of nature; ‘something must evolve to meet new challenges or suffer extinction’, it is necessary for these communities to adopt a vision congruent with each’s respective needs and the fluctuating impositions of it’s context. TND seems well suited to meet the requirement. Small towns are historically laid out in the TND manner; the infrastructure costs less, provides walkability and charm, access to nearby services, good public space, and ultimately fosters strong community ties.
When looking into the views of planners dealing with rural communities it becomes evedent that the case for increased regulation within these developments is justified. The following is a statement found on cyburbia.org a leading planning forum: “case in point, and I have 3 of these (problems) - the 3-4 generation family accumulating (refuse) all over the property, old trucks, tires, appliances, no gravel for the driveway, just mud; nobody bugs them for years. enter family of 4 settling down to Maine from a major metropolitan area, builds a nice stick-built shingle-style, quintessential Maine house, so nice... then after taking occupancy, upon hearing mad dogs barking, people yelling, Bud cans everywhere, comes into my office and (voices their complaints)” The comment speaks volumes to why rural communities need vision to guide leadership, not only in future matters but those related to present quality of life concerns. It is cruel that in some cases those with the greatest need secure the least help, but such is the case with planning in rural areas. One way TND works to remedy situations related to the above comment is by limiting the amount of private space available to negligent management. Apathetic management is another measurable factor within the greater economic viability of Small town America. Just like numerous other cases stated previously; a piece of a small whole is larger within a small entity than it is within a large entity. This fact holds true to disinvestment. Within a large settlement areas of blight are deleterious to the city as a whole, but, these areas can be quarantined and in effect, logically segmented from the whole. Within a small town there is no perceptible vacuous space within which to throw problem areas; however unfair, the weakest link reflects most poorly upon the next largest system, this system in a small town is the town itself.
Community and other marketable factors of Rural Towns
It is neccessary for leaders to understand the populations
needed to support certain services. An all too attractive pitfall for small communities is investing
resources in areas that the current community cannot support. If it is realized after-the-fact that an industry is not economically viable the community is dealt a traummatic, sometimes leathal blow as, generally, the sort of competition neccessary to overcome failure is not existant within these areas. Therefore, Small towns need to push for advancement in logical areas, those that play well into the hand they are dealt. “Research suggests that densities of seven units per acre or higher are needed to support a small corner store; a small supermarket requires 18 units per acre.” (Creating Great Communities) this statement may be gleaned from data related to larger developments; due to the relative lack of competition, rural services require slightly less density, although, there is a universal truth to the research. Services require a pool of consumers to provide neccessary day to day cash flow in order to remain feasible. The concept appears obvious but given the increadible difficulty start-up businesses have with proffitability, and the significance of these failures relative to the possible downfall of a community, it cannot be overstated. “Although less than seven percent of the county’s land area is high-density development, it generates 33 percent of the county’s real estate taxes” (Creating Great Communities) this is crucial to rural centers, they must create value and capitalize on their attractive, elemental features: three of which are community, identity and adjacency to nature; increased density benefits all of these features and likewise brings rural communities closer to solvency.
“subdivisions grow up without any town center, any corner store or any sense of community.”(Creating Great Neighborhoods) The scenario alluded to in the previous statement is not possible in functioning rural centers, and thus is a critical defensable characteristic for these communities to fall back on, and cultivate vitality from. Suburban developments struggle with creating true identity, and often fall prey to ‘manufactured individualism’. The few differences that are in favor of rural communities need to be expanded upon with ruthless precision, a town simply cannot compete with the city in a large number of areas; and it does not need to, as long as it capitalizes upon strengths.
Development of true community Identity
insert text here --->
community vs. urban alienation
“we find that urban residence is associated with percieved powerlessness... even when we adjust for sociodemographic characteristics, a small effect of urban residence on subjective powerlessness remains.” (A New Look at Urban Alienation) According to the previously stated article: “People who report living in a disordered neighborhood have significantly higher levels of perveived powerlessness, in small part because they lack social ties with neighbors”
(commentary on above text)
Adjacency to nature
As American culture has evolved nature and the outdoors have become less of an influence in our daily lives. Children are spending less time participating in natural play and more in structured activities. As stated in the introduction of Last Child in the Woods Richard Louv 2008 “Our society is teaching young people to avoid direct experience in nature. That lesson is delivered in schools, families, even organizations devoted to the outdoors, and codified into the legal and regulatory structures of many of our communities.” According to Louv most children today don’t experience the natural world the same way previous generations have. Louv breaks down the changing American perception of nature in terms of stages of the changing frontier. From the formation of the United States to the closing of the contiguous frontier in the late 1800’s Americans generally viewed nature through the lens of “direct utilitarianism”. During this period the wilderness was seen as something to be tamed, individuals were to battle the frontier and master the elements.
During this formative period in American history the relationship between the nation and the frontier did much to define our countries’ character. As the Frontier
closed in the late 1800’s popular culture began to romanticize ‘The Fontiersman’. Individuals such as Teddy Roosevelt and John Muir talked of the importance of nature and promoted the preservation of natural wonders. The actions of these individuals
and others created an environment that fostered and preserved an inextricable connection between Americans and the natural world.
In today’s connected, information driven world “romantic
attachment” seems to be slowly slipping and we are finding ourselves in a position of “electronic detachment”. According to Louv this detachment is facilitated by several factors the most significant of which are increasingly intellectualized views of nature and the growing urban population. In addition to the changing nature of day to day life a nation that once celebrated ‘rugged individualism’ and Emersonian
transcendentalism seems to be succeeding at making these powerful existential experiences less accessible. Fear of lawsuits and injury combined with well intentioned heavy handed parenting has drastically limited children’s access outdoor areas and natural play opportunities. This situation translates into more time spent in sterile environments utilizing electronics and other less creative forms of play. Authorities are beginning to quantify the coloquially held belief that ‘nature does children good’. Recent studies show an immutable correlation betwee children who are deficient in creative natural play and the likelihood of these individuals suffering from developmental issues, depression, ADHD and learning disabilities.
Although the vast majority of current research is related to nature and childhood there is the multitude
of worthwhile; albeit sentimental, writings of the 19th century American romantics devoted to defining the importance of nature in personal development, maintenance and fulfillment. Residents of rural America benefit from their adjacency to nature, this is, in many respects a major reason individuals immigrate to or justify being in sparsely populated areas. A central goal for small communities is to strike the right balance of Community, and protection of natural play opportunities. It is difficult to meet a compromise between two seemingly mutually exclusive characteristic but it is neccessary to the success of communities and the health of those who live within them.
Research on historic native development patterns?
COMMENTS ON COUNTERINTUITIVE COMPACT DEVELOPMENT IN RURAL CENTERS
Marketability of traditional development model in small communities
theoretical study synthesized.
Results from Typology Research:
The various typologies related to the design of and strategic plan for Parshall ND are as follows: Hybridized new urbanist style development or (TND) pattern, retrofitted for use with modular housing within the rural context, and The developmental framework set forth in ‘Beginning Again North Dakota’ (BAND)
Through the analysis of New Urbanist and TND style of development it became evident that there are certain qualities of these models that do not translate from the urban to rural context. That being said, underlying design sensitivities laid out in the previous analysis of; the writings of Leon Krier, research on TND and the case study for Orenco Station have universal utility. Significant areas of correlation include: the new urbanist ideal of open space creation, development of character, the necessary generation of critical mass/density at which local services and infrastructure are increasingly viable, and finally, the emphasis on humanistic/experiential qualities of the built environment. With the given analysis of the data it becomes quite clear that a retrofitted Traditional Style Development / New urbanism is far better suited to updating Parshall, ND than the sprawl archetype found in Casselton. Upon considering Strategic Plans covered within the case studies of Tower City and Wallhalla it became clear that the plans for these towns were executed quite differently, and rightfully so. Each community has different characteristics and BAND: (an extremely relevant document) presents a framework from which to cultivate the understanding and capitalization of unique elements within a rural community. Through the strategic plan it becomes evident that Walhalla: a town located in western North Dakota, has much more in common with Parshall than Tower City North Dakota, located in eastern ND. Despite the commonality of Tower City and Walhalla: similar size and region, the direct adjacency and history of these developments does much to form individuality as such, rural communities in search of increased vitality should not be painted with a broad brush, Parshall especially, cannot ignore
its uniqueness as a community if it does the solution found will be grossly inadequate.
historical context
Parshall ND is located in north central North dakota, on the periphery of the Fort Berthold Mandan Hidatsa Arikara (MHA) reservation. The MHA reservation has a past none too different from the quintessecial native american experience. To describe events with relative brevity: land was taken from the tribe slowly and deliberately until a static establishment was formed at ‘Like a Fish Hook Village’. Upon the completion of the Garrison Dam water innundated the remnants of the village and relocated the members of the tribe to higher ground. (more on relevant history specific to parshall) Western North Dakota, the region with the greatest influence upon West Central ND is currently in the midst of an expansive energy boom. This process requires a massive overhaul of existing infrastucture and injects inordinate amounts of capital and population into an otherwise spacely populated, range dominated region. This Influx although helpful to the overall state economy presents logistical challenges to and neccessitates sizeable investment within the affected region.
Currently Parshall ND has a significant racial mix of near 50, 50 Caucasian to Native American residents. This Racial divide along with the town’s location within the periphery of the reservation, the MHA affiliated tribe’s progressive stance, and the context of oil and gas development within the greater reservation helps to make Parshall, ND well situated for the development of a thoughtful and progressive design and strategic plan. Other Projects dealing with similar issues include: the stategic plans for Tower City and Walhalla ND covered briefly in the “case studies” protion of the document although a clear framework or study for the development of a Rural Community with the specific characteristics of Parshall, ND is not readily available.
case studies
Orenco StationOrenco Station is a 156 acre area planned for 1,830 dwellings. The development has a gross density of about 12 dwellings per acre. Orenco Station is located in Hillboro, Oregon a community just west or Portland. The development consists of 9% open space, 37% residential, 24% commercial, 3% mixed use 2% civic/industry. Although this ‘town’ is located on the urban periphery what it strives to create is what a strong rural community needs in order to function, character, open space, relative density and subsequent community vitality. There will be less neccessary density as movement patterns are different and Parshall is not a bedroom community that needs to make public transit viable. It is helpful to contrast the ‘new urbanist’ style with what is neccessary for rural communities as there are things to be learned from data in the area of the relevant overlap.
Tower City, NDHighlights of the strategic plan for Tower City, ND created using the
framework of “Beginning again North Dakota”
Goal 1: To create a good first impression by developing attractive and
welcoming areas for people to enjoy.
Improve the aesthetics of the I-94 exchange to invite interest in our community.
expand and enhance the city park...
increase pride and community through flowers and welcome banners...
Goal 2: Create a thriving business sector by preserving and fostering interest
in existing businesses while inviting new businesses
to our community
encourage support of local business...
support and increase interest in our community
Walhalla, NDHighlights of the strategic plan for Tower City, ND created using the framework
of “Beginning again North Dakota”
VISION: Walhalla is a community...
- characterized by welcoming neighborhoods and belonging - that embraces
its heritage and beauty - that is well planned, environmentally sensitive, w/ equal access plentiful rec. and culture - with integrated technology utility and transport networks - developing partnerships of citizens, business & education communities for a stong base - that offers ample employment and business - encourages public involvement
Goal 1: stimulate and stabilize local economy
retain support and expand local businesses
support new industry and business
Goal 2: Increase tourism in the area
develop natural resources
improve first impression of the community
generate and support tourism business
adopt a business climate that capitalizes on tourism
develope advertising and marketing consistent with ongoing development
Goal 3: Improve city infrastucture
remove and refurbish building citywide
establish spring cleanup program
encourage ciry government to educate and enforce city ordinances
invite new businesses to build
create an airport
Casselton, NDIs a town currently dealing with an influx of new housing. Due to its status as a bedroom community to Fargo and somewhat different economic class of user it is dealing with growth factors that are not truly representative of Parshall, ND. The current form of growth and the relative similarity of size between the two communities
are the factors to be considered. Casselton is currently a good example of small town growth gone wrong due to market pressures. Parshall would be well served by inacting a vision that does not have a place within it for this style of infrastructure. As stated previously, sprawl style development is more economically and socially damaging to the rural town than the suburb is to the city.
Goals for the Thesis Project
To create a functional document and visualization for parshall and its future.
To form a couple novel concepts related to the future of development on the reservation and rural areas.
To find a workable version of TND / New Urbanist style developmental design for Rural areas.
To eventually make catherine proud of me and revel in the glory of successful albeit delayed achievement
which will slightly soothe current wounded pride.
references
‘Architecture choice or fate’
-leon krier
‘Beginning Again North Dakota
An Asset Based Development Program for Rural Communities Using a Community Capitals Framework’
-Gary A. Goreham, Kathleen Tweeten, Coutney D Taylor and Brian Fier
North Dakota State University
‘A New Look at Urban Alienation: The Effect of Neighborhood Disorder on Percieved Powerlessness’
-Karlyn J. Geis, Catherine E. Ross
The Ohio State University
Creating Great Neighborhoods: Density In your community
-US EPA
Smart Growth & Conventional Suburban Development:
Which Costs More? An infrastructure case study completed for the EPA
-Johnathan Ford, PE
Morris Beacon Design
Last Child in the Woods: Saving Our Children From Nature-Deficit Disorder
-Richard Louv
Skinny Streets and Green Neighborhoods: Design for Environment and Community
-Cynthia Girling and Ronald Kellett
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