of land than low-density development at the suburban fringe. Studies also suggest that a low-density development at the suburban fringe can produce as much as ten times more stormwater runoff than a mixed-use infill project with the same development program.64 The PlanET demonstration project shown below and on the facing page proposes the redevelopment of a low-density greyfield site as a high-density mixed-use town center at Halls Crossroads. The proposal includes two- and three-story mixed-use buildings, parking structures, and extensive green infrastructure. The proposal avoids impacts to over 240 acres of undeveloped property that would have been disturbed if the site program had been developed at the suburban fringe using conventional development densities and intensities. 65 Hydrologic impacts are also reduced
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by minimizing impervious rooftops, roads, and parking surfaces. Parks, rooftop gardens, and streetscapes incorporate LID practices that further minimize and manage stormwater impacts. By building vertically, the proposal yields a significant increase in the amount of building square footage within the site while increasing the amount of open space accessible to the public as recreation amenities and community gathering places (see p175). In addition to hydrologic benefits, infill and redevelopment projects also enhance walkability, transit viability, sense of place and community, and can increase property values while reducing reliance on personal automobiles to access basic services. By developing where road, emergency service, and utility infrastructure are already in place, municipal capital investment and maintenance costs to support growth can also be reduced compared to the economics of sprawl. 66