Evocative of neighborhoods from a time gone by, communities that are designed and built true to the neo-traditional or TND style are vibrant, active, self-sustaining places to live. Best examples throughout the country include Kentlands in Maryland, Celebration in Florida, and Ion Village in South Carolina.

New Urban communities, also called Traditional Neighborhoods, are often defined as offering a variety of housing types and land uses within a certain community - similar to a small town. The variety of uses allows educational facilities, civic buildings and retail establishments to be located within walking distance of private homes. One distinguishing trait is that the community is served by a network of paths, streets and lanes suitable for pedestrians as well as vehicles, which provides residents the option of walking, biking or driving to places within their neighborhood.

Public and private spaces have equal importance, creating a balanced community that serves a wide range of home and business owners. The inclusion of civic buildings and civic space -- in the form of plazas, greens, parks and squares - enhances community identity and value.

An example of a fully functioning Urban community is downtown Franklin, or, on the west side of town, the Belmont, 12th South District, and East Nashville.