Governing

Preserving farmland has always been a major issue in the U.S. But as Bill Fulton discusses, the local economic results don't quite justify the efforts.

Three years later, Hurricane Katrina has had lasting effects on New Orleans. It's also taught America some lessons about how to react to natural disasters -- and how not to.

The population of white people in Atlanta is growing larger by the day, a demographic shift many say is bringing about major changes in the city. This article from Governing says other cities are seeing similar trends.

In this column from Governing, Peter Harkness looks at the increasing influence and power of metropolitan areas.

The rise in virtual connections and Internet-based communities had many worried that traditional community interaction was dying out. Governing's Alan Ehrenhalt argues it hasn't yet, and probably won't.

Charlotte's light rail system has proven to be a major success in the city, spurring development and igniting the local economy. But as it expands, will the other communities it benefits join in the funding party?

As the cities in the arid Western United States face huge water shortages, officials and scientists are trying to convince the public that recycled wastewater can be clean and safe.

This article from Governing looks at the role of higher education and medical facilities in keeping urban areas alive.

Conservatives and libertarians who admonish government spending and transit subsides still support new road and highway construction, and the state power and funding they typically require.

As cities get serious about addressing climate change, a new city position -- the sustainability director -- is taking office all over the country.

The cities of Vallejo, California, and McCall, Idaho, are considering filing for bankruptcy.

City rankings can be double-edged sword.

This article from Governing looks at the resurgence in popularity experienced by walkable urban areas and wonders is walking is truly making a major comeback in the United States.

This article from Governing looks at the state tax system and examines how states are taking steps to restructure their systems to ensure long-term viability.

Flint, Michigan, has undergone a significant depression in recent years, and the proof is in the hundreds of foreclosed and abandoned properties sprinkled throughout the city. But one man is leading the redevelopment of the struggling city.

According to columnist Ken Miller, government agencies can learn a lot from the television show "Extreme Makeover: Home Edition".

Many big cities' plans for free citywide Wi-Fi networks fell apart in 2007. But this column from Governing argues that cities should keep broadband Internet access as a priority to remain competitive.

The engineering jargon name "light rail" is just not lovable. Maybe that's why the more familiar streetcar is gathering support in cities across the country, writes Alex Marshall in this column from Governing.

Last year, one-third of Amtrak trains reached their destinations behind schedule. Making passenger rail competitive with other modes will require massive capital investment.

U.S. cities are increasingly utilizing below-grade freeway to cover with parkland. Some 20 highway-deck parks are already open, with more in the pipeline.