Rather than being defensive, I hope that Mr. Weber will work with all the players to understand and implement a new paradigm. The stakes are too high for us not to have everyone around the table. Bill Weber's letter published in the November edition of Planning Minnesota raises some questions about confusing the message of the New Urbanism with the volatile delivery of messengers like James Kunstler and Andres Duany. While offended at how the actions and influence of the planning profession are characterized by Duany and company, Mr. Weber concedes that the New Urbanists offer an attractive alternative to the status quo. I believe that Duany and Weber can agree on an obvious point.
Sprawl is a cancer.
Where it came from is only important if that information helps us deliver a cure. The methods used to treat the cancer of sprawl are worthy of spirited debate and rigorous exploration. Folks that wish to deliver the message in a more moderate tone are welcome. The CNU offers membership to all interested parties. The contrast between suburban sprawl and traditional neighborhoods is their building density and physical arrangement.