But developers of big projects naturally have another point of view. Even more important, builders claim, is that large, master-planned developments can be actually friendlier than small subdivisions. This is because of the economy of scale, making possible large, well-equipped community centers, where residents can meet informally for recreation and social events. They foster a sense of community that enhances the quality of life. On Memorial Day, this heart of one of the Chicago area's largest new housing developments is scheduled to start beating.
All homeowners automatically are members in the Sports Core.
The facility also has sand volleyball, basketball and tennis courts. Portions of the clubhouse, including a meeting room and an exercise facility, will be open year-around. This summer the Elgin YMCA will manage and staff the pool and offer swimming and exercise programs. They are so big that residents say they live at Oakhurst or Thornwood, not in Aurora or South Elgin. The roots of this type of development go all the way back to the golf course communities of the '60s.