Chicago: The City That Lives in Rings
So, you've heard of the concentric zone model, huh? The one that makes Chicago look like a giant onion? Yeah, let's dive into why the Windy City is such a textbook example of this urban planning masterpiece (or eyesore, depending on who you ask).
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| Why Does Chicago Follow The Concentric Zone Model |
The Great Chicago Onion
Imagine Chicago as a giant onion. You've got the core, the heart, the soul - the Central Business District (CBD). This is where dreams are made (or crushed, depending on your rent). It's the land of skyscrapers, overpriced coffee, and people who walk really fast.
Moving outward, we've got the Zone of Transition. This is where things get a bit... gritty. Think old factories, abandoned buildings, and a mix of cultures that could rival a United Nations conference. It's a tough place to live, but it's also where the city's heartbeat really lies.
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Next up, the Working Class Zone. This is where you'll find the backbone of the city – the people who actually make things happen. It's a mix of old and new, with a strong sense of community.
Then we have the Residential Zone. This is where people start to have yards and maybe even a barbecue grill. It's the land of mini-vans and PTA meetings.
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And finally, the Commuter Zone. This is where people escape the city for a little peace and quiet. It's the land of McMansions and SUVs.
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Why Does This Onion Exist?
So, why does Chicago look like an onion? Well, it's a combination of factors. For starters, the city grew rapidly in the late 19th and early 20th centuries, leading to a lot of unplanned development. Second, the availability of transportation (like trains and streetcars) influenced where people lived and worked. And third, economic factors played a role, with different social groups clustering together based on income and occupation.
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Of course, this model is a simplification. Chicago is a complex and ever-changing city, and there are plenty of exceptions to the rule. But it's still a useful tool for understanding how the city developed and how different neighborhoods are related to each other.
The Onion Has Layers (And So Does Chicago)
So, there you have it. Chicago: the city that lives in rings. It's a fascinating place with a rich history, and the concentric zone model is just one piece of the puzzle.
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How to understand the concentric zone model? Think of an onion.How to identify the CBD? Look for the tallest buildings and most expensive real estate.How to recognize the Zone of Transition? It's usually characterized by a mix of old and new, and a high level of diversity.How to appreciate Chicago? Visit, eat deep-dish pizza, and experience the city's vibrant culture.How to become a human geography expert? Start by learning about the concentric zone model (and maybe read a few more books).
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