As urban growth continues, the role of public transit systems will escalate. Though some cities already have the infrastructure in place to adapt to this expected growth, many cities are starting to worry about what they'll do when the people come.
Wired's Autopia blog takes a look at the rise of urban populations and the challenges faces some smaller cities as they try to put transit systems in place.
"Such growth is not as big a concern for cities with extensive multi-modal transit systems. But what about cities that don't have the extensive transportation networks of, say, the Big Apple? This question takes on added urgency when you realize that more than 400 million people will live in the United States by 2050, with a majority moving into more urbanized parts of the United States breathing revitalization to once depressed cities, while creating new ones.
Clearly we must look to our transportation systems as the basis, or, to use a biological metaphor, the the connective tissue for new urban development. This will allow us to continue the trend toward urban living while providing public transportation options the public wants - and, increasingly will need."
FULL STORY: As Our Cities Grow, So Too Must Our Transit System

Maui's Vacation Rental Debate Turns Ugly
Verbal attacks, misinformation campaigns and fistfights plague a high-stakes debate to convert thousands of vacation rentals into long-term housing.

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

San Francisco Suspends Traffic Calming Amidst Record Deaths
Citing “a challenging fiscal landscape,” the city will cease the program on the heels of 42 traffic deaths, including 24 pedestrians.

Defunct Pittsburgh Power Plant to Become Residential Tower
A decommissioned steam heat plant will be redeveloped into almost 100 affordable housing units.

Trump Prompts Restructuring of Transportation Research Board in “Unprecedented Overreach”
The TRB has eliminated more than half of its committees including those focused on climate, equity, and cities.

Amtrak Rolls Out New Orleans to Alabama “Mardi Gras” Train
The new service will operate morning and evening departures between Mobile and New Orleans.
Urban Design for Planners 1: Software Tools
This six-course series explores essential urban design concepts using open source software and equips planners with the tools they need to participate fully in the urban design process.
Planning for Universal Design
Learn the tools for implementing Universal Design in planning regulations.
Heyer Gruel & Associates PA
JM Goldson LLC
Custer County Colorado
City of Camden Redevelopment Agency
City of Astoria
Transportation Research & Education Center (TREC) at Portland State University
Jefferson Parish Government
Camden Redevelopment Agency
City of Claremont