A growing number of exclusive gated communities in remote areas, dubbed "The New Ruralism", is raising eyebrows among planners, environmentalists, and local residents.
"Imagine a huge log cabin hugging a mountainside, with horses running past the picturesque red barn. Strategically placed ponderosa pines dot a perpetually green meadow. A stream meanders through. Now what if that picture included a private club, equestrian center, pool, golf course, and wireless internet? What if next door were 30 other faux "western outposts" just like yours? And what if all of you were enclosed within one giant fence with a security gate? Whether this appeals to you or not, brace yourself, because this Disney-esque interpretation of rural living may soon be coming to a countryside near you."
"Unlike its counterpart, New Urbanism (which aims to mimic the compactness, efficiency, and diversity of an old-time city through transit alternatives, mixed-use areas, and mixed-income housing), New Ruralism is heavily dependent on car use and is generally reserved for the rich."
FULL STORY: Gated Communities Go West

Planetizen Federal Action Tracker
A weekly monitor of how Trump’s orders and actions are impacting planners and planning in America.

Chicago’s Ghost Rails
Just beneath the surface of the modern city lie the remnants of its expansive early 20th-century streetcar system.

Amtrak Cutting Jobs, Funding to High-Speed Rail
The agency plans to cut 10 percent of its workforce and has confirmed it will not fund new high-speed rail projects.

Ohio Forces Data Centers to Prepay for Power
Utilities are calling on states to hold data center operators responsible for new energy demands to prevent leaving consumers on the hook for their bills.

MARTA CEO Steps Down Amid Citizenship Concerns
MARTA’s board announced Thursday that its chief, who is from Canada, is resigning due to questions about his immigration status.

Silicon Valley ‘Bike Superhighway’ Awarded $14M State Grant
A Caltrans grant brings the 10-mile Central Bikeway project connecting Santa Clara and East San Jose closer to fruition.
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