What is the relationship between land-use mix and accessibility in urban form?

• A. Mixed land uses increase accessibility by shortening travel distances between homes, jobs, and services; reduces need for auto travel; enhances walkability
• B. Land-use mix increases travel distances and car dependency
• C. Land-use mix has no impact on accessibility
• D. Accessible design decreases the need for land-use diversity

Answer: (A)

Mixing different land uses close together makes daily trips doable without relying on a car, which enhances accessibility. When homes, jobs, shops, and services sit within walking or biking distance, people can reach a wide range of destinations quickly, and the option to use transit becomes viable too. This proximity encourages shorter trips and even the possibility of combining errands in one outing, which strengthens walkability and reduces the need to drive. In urban form with a connected street network and adequate density, these benefits multiply because destinations are easier to reach on foot or by bike, not just by car.

So, the best relationship is that mixed land uses increase accessibility by shortening travel distances between homes, jobs, and services; reduces need for auto travel; and enhances walkability. Opposite outcomes aren’t supported by how land-use diversity shapes travel behavior, and while accessible design helps people move within built environments, it doesn’t substitute for the accessibility gained from nearby and varied destinations.