Society had evolved for centuries. The way a village or town worked, how the homes were grouped, and how people related had all been fine-tuned over hundreds of years. But when the automobile became mass-produced, that pattern, the fabric of society, was changed in an instant.

Planners started developing around the automobile. They designed fast-moving streets, then cul-de-sacs because people didn't want to live on a fast-moving street. The result was that people became disconnected from one another; from the ability to walk in their community; from the ability to live near where they shopped.

New Urbanism is the rebirth of the most loved places, and Elim Valley's design group, DPZ, has been at the forefront of this rebirth. One of the basic ideas of New Urbanism is to implement a village square or a park that is the center of town, much like in older towns. If you look at all of Elim Valley, it's comprised of multiple connecting neighborhoods. And within each neighborhood or is a town center. From that town center, you can walk to the edge of the neighborhood within five minutes.

DPZ has also reconnected the grid pattern of traditional neighborhoods. This allows people to walk continuously, unlike in a cul-de-sac situation. Also, in a traditional neighborhood the streets were smaller. The grid pattern allows us to build smaller streets as cars can go many different directions to connect. There isn't just one main artery that drivers can use. This ultimately makes it safer for walking and playing.

In New Urbanism, houses are oriented to the front of the streets. Because windows face the street and many homes have front porches, the streets once again are returned to the people. The automobile is located at the rear of the house, off of an alley. This still accommodates convenience with an automobile, but returns the neighborhood to its proper perspective.

New Urbanism also promotes architectural agreement: the community agrees on architectural style, and that style is controlled through architectural guidelines in the office of the town architect. Because of this high level of detail that goes into New Urbanism developments, property values gain a higher appreciation.

Return the streets to the public domain: that is the idea throughout New Urbanism. The streets frame and create public places out of the sidewalks and parks, creating a most loved place.

Just as the ancient ELIM nourished life, so will ELIM VALLEY. We will have 12 neighborhoods symbolic of the 12 ancient springs. Our grand entrance will feature 70 beautiful shade trees. Our oasis will rise out of the desert as the ELIM did of old. A place created to nourish life...your life...your way.