From time immemorial, or so it seems, America’s cities and towns were laid out in a grid pattern of interconnecting streets. Many of us  grew up in and treasured such neighborhoods.

But largely in the second half of the 20th century, stand-alone subdivisions, loosely linked by collector roads, took hold. A primary feature of these developments was the cul-de-sac. The folks who flocked to these subdivisions hailed them for the same reasons their parents lauded the older grid neighborhoods: They offered safety, security, and a community “feel.” Now, as traffic congestion and road maintenance costs escalate, governments are casting a long and critical look at sheltered subdivisions — iconic symbols of suburbia, though they may be.

Nowhere is this more true than here in Virginia, where Gov. Timothy M. Kaine, for economic as well as land-use reasons, has rammed through new regulations for suburban and exurban development through the General Assembly. Simply stated, all new subdivisions must feature through streets connecting them with neighboring developments, schools, and shopping areas.

This, Mr. Kaine says, would alleviate snarls on choked connector roads onto which traffic from myriad single-entrance subdivisions feed. The new regs would also signal the demise of what has been called “cul-de-sac land.” Residents who appreciate these developments, as well as developers, are none too happy.

Both sides present substantive points. But even those who favor the more traditional grid neighborhoods with less vexing traffic patterns should bridle at the diminution of freedom these new regs represent. People should have the opportunity to reside in the communities they choose. One size — or one regulation — need not, and should not, fit all. Government’s heavy hand just got a bit heavier in Virginia.