The latest issue of Science is dedicated to looking at cities, their development and the changing demographics that are shaping our urban lifestyles.
"By 2030, nearly 5 billion people will live in cities. This special issue explores the enormous implications of the mass embrace of city life."
"As Grimm et al. show, cities are hot spots of production, consumption, and waste generation. Already, according to the United Nations, cities are responsible for 75% of global energy consumption and 80% of greenhouse gas emissions. Without careful investment and planning, megacities (those with more than 10 million inhabitants) will be overwhelmed with burgeoning slums and environmental problems. There are advantages to city life, such as the relative proximity of health care and jobs. However, Mace describes continuing costs in terms of fertility, and Bloom et al. challenge a commonly accepted perception that urbanization fuels economic growth."
"Cities have taken novel approaches to dealing with urbanization. A News article explores how the Chinese government is encouraging a variety of schemes, including the development of 'eco-cities.' Other News items highlight success stories, including Bogotá's reduction of traffic fatalities, London's reduction of traffic jams, and Mexico's efforts to alleviate urban poverty."
FULL STORY: Reimagining Cities

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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Planning for Universal Design
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Caltrans
City of Fort Worth
Mpact (founded as Rail~Volution)
City of Camden Redevelopment Agency
City of Astoria
City of Portland
City of Laramie