The Continuing Evolution of CPTED

 

Paving, structures, amenities, lighting and landscaping express ownership, defining a public space and creating a kind of natural, territorial reinforcement. photo courtesty of Mahan Rykiel Associates

Some cities and counties in the U.S. are adopting Crime Prevention through Environmental Design (CPTED) ordinances that require site plan reviews with crime prevention in mind. CPTED is based on the premise that design and effective use of the built environment can help reduce crime, and the fear of it.

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Some CPTED Concepts

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• Use the shortest, least sight-limiting fencing.
• Make sure pathways, stairs, entrances/exits, parking areas, children’s play areas, recreation areas, pools, etc., are well-lit.
• Place lighting along pathways and other pedestrian areas at heights for lighting peoples?EUR??,,????'?????<
• Avoid too-bright security lighting that creates blinding glare in one area and deep shadows elsewhere.
• Use shielded or cut-off luminaires to control glare.
• Use moderate-intensity lighting, but plenty of it.
• Installing security cameras tends to make people who might act out be on their better behavior. (Of course, they are only recorders. There were security cameras at Columbine High School during that murderous rampage.
• Maze entrances are suggested for public restrooms.
• Plant low, thorny bushes beneath ground level windows.
• Eliminate design features that provide access to roofs or upper levels.
• Fencing, pavement, signs, lighting and landscaping express ownership and define public, semi-public and private space. A kind of natural, territorial reinforcement occurs.
• Research indicates that, contrary to traditional law enforcement views, outdoor residential spaces with more trees are significantly safer, as they are more likely to be used than tree-less spaces.
• Placing seating or refreshment amenities in common areas in commercial or institutional settings help to attract larger numbers of desired users.