How American Suburbs Killed Small Businesses

Introduction

One of the biggest benefits of living in a city is having most essentials within close proximity from your home. The ability to step outside and walk or cycle to a nearby shop on lively and livable streets is invaluable. However, many people prefer suburban living, often at the cost of convenience and walkability. American suburbs have become infamous for being car-dependent, monotonous, and isolating. Fast-food chains, big-box stores, and shopping centers with sprawling parking lots dominate these areas. Everyday errands sometimes require long drives, drastically reducing the convenience that urban living offers.

Despite the convenience that urban shops provide, there is a dramatic shortage of small businesses in the suburbs. The competition is largely relegated to large chain stores, leading to a bland experience devoid of local flavor. Factors such as zoning laws and parking minimums have contributed to the decline in small businesses. In many American cities, corner stores and small neighborhood businesses struggle to survive, replaced instead by massive retail chains like Walmart. The impact of this transition is severe, leading to monotony in American life and encouraging car dependency.

Take, for example, Riverdale, an old suburb in Toronto. Unlike modern suburbs, Riverdale features a variety of small cafes and restaurants integrated within its residential structure. Notably, while chain stores exist, local businesses have a fighting chance to survive and contribute to the local economy. Such neighborhoods boast unique characters and identities, transforming everyday areas into vibrant local cultures.

Communities with a mix of residential and retail spaces create a more welcoming environment. Well-known author Jane Jacobs promoted the idea of "eyes on the street," where the presence of pedestrians enhances safety and deters crime. Neighborhood shops foster social connections, allow for casual interactions among residents, and provide a sense of belonging. Without local businesses within walking distance, these benefits dissipate, leading to social isolation.

Yet, restrictive zoning laws present one of the most significant obstacles to nurturing small businesses in the suburbs. Zoning regulations often dictate that different types of buildings must be separated. Consequently, developers can’t construct neighborhood cafes if the area is exclusively zoned for residential buildings. Parking minimums further exacerbate the issue, forcing businesses to provide an abundance of parking spaces, which can be expensive and counterproductive. As a result, small businesses find it increasingly difficult to thrive in these environments filled with parking lots instead of shops.

Fortunately, many cities are starting to recognize the need for reform. Initiatives such as mixed-use developments, where residential and commercial spaces coexist, can revitalize neighborhoods and stimulate local economies. Featuring a diverse blend of shops and living spaces brings various people together throughout the day. Yet, as societies adapt, the challenge remains to balance the interests of all stakeholders, including both residents seeking vibrant communities and local business owners worried about noise and traffic.

Cities can embrace innovative ideas that allow for diverse business models, walking-friendly neighborhoods, and thriving local economies. Allowing corner stores to exist within residential areas can pave the way for entrepreneurship, much like how tech giants began in garages. While it’s vital to consider community concerns about noise and disruptions, there needs to be a reasonable compromise that encourages small business options without completely banning them.

The reality is evident: American suburbs, through protracted zoning laws and car-dependent policies, have inadvertently stifled the small business landscape. Revitalizing neighborhoods into mixed-use, pedestrian-friendly spaces can create marketplaces that benefit both residents and small business owners. It is crucial that we approach suburban development with the intent to create vibrant communities rich in local culture—places where entrepreneurship can flourish, enhancing our overall quality of life.

Keyword

• American Suburbs
• Small Businesses
• Convenience
• Walkability
• Zoning Laws
• Mixed-Use Developments
• Local Economy
• Community Engagement
• Car Dependency

FAQ

Why are American suburbs considered car-dependent?
American suburbs are often designed with vast parking lots and separated residential and commercial areas, which necessitates the use of cars for transportation.

What is the impact of zoning laws on small businesses?
Zoning laws often segregate residential and commercial spaces, preventing small businesses from establishing themselves in neighborhoods.

What are mixed-use developments?
Mixed-use developments are areas where residential and commercial spaces coexist, allowing for easier access to shops and services on foot.

How do neighborhood shops contribute to community engagement?
Neighborhood shops create social gathering spaces, promoting connections among residents and encouraging casual interactions that build community trust and cohesion.

What can be done to encourage small businesses in the suburbs?
Cities can revise zoning laws to permit mixed-use developments, support local entrepreneurship, and allow for corner stores to thrive within residential neighborhoods.