Community / Economic Development
How to Make Vacant Properties Disappear
Vacant properties are considered blight instead of potential, argues John Kromer of the Fels Institute. By acting strategically and thinking smaller, officials can revitalize their cities and attract new, more stable investment.
New Retail Space Faces Challenges in San Francisco
A developer who hopes to put a new shopping center on a stretch of Market Street will face challenges from local groups who take issue with the accompanying parking structure and modern design.
The End of the Middle Class?
The growing concentrations of the super-wealthy in America contrast sharply with the erosion of the middle class. It is time for a new set of rules to protect ordinary Americans, writes Elizabeth Warren.
Park Re-Ignites Hope in St. Louis
The new Citygarden park in downtown St. Louis is seen by some locals as a sign of hope for the future of the city.
Liveability a "Major Priority" at DOT
Among the criteria for evaluating projects, livability is at the top, along with safety and economic competitiveness.
Redefining Blight
From New London to the Atlantic Yards, the last month has seen a flood of news around the issue of eminent domain. Diana Lind wonders if we need a new definition of 'blighted.'
Cleveland's Economic Development Success Story
Despite the unfortunate timing of its renovation, Cleveland's Euclid corridor continues to drive development for the city.
Food Stamps Across the Country
The New York Times' has created an interactive map of food stamp usage breaking down recipients by county across the United States.
Glaeser on Dubai's Rise and Fall
Economist Ed Glaeser explains what went wrong in Dubai World.
The Corner Store Returns
Market forces are reshaping the usual suburban format for many large-scale grocers.
Immigrant-Driven Economy
A significant portion of greater Cleveland's economy is driven by its immigrant population, according to a new report.
Preserving 'Button Parks'
Richard Louv proposes that local groups use the land trust model to create small public spaces, or what he calls "button parks."
Curing Sprawl in Lansing
Like many American cities, Lansing, Michigan, has been afflicted with sprawl since the end of World War II. Locals have identified the culprit: separate-use zoning.
North America's First Slow City
The village of Cowichan Bay, British Colombia, has been named the first "Slow City" in North America. This report from Living on Earth tours the town.
Farmers Markets + Food Stamps = WIN
In the midst of discussions over "food deserts" (areas of town with no access to fresh groceries, usually poor urban neighborhoods) comes news that a program creating food stamps for farmers markets is booming in New York City.
Tax Revenues Down in 44 States
Tax revenues were down during the third quarter of 2009 in 44 states, according to a new report from the Nelson A. Rockefeller Institute of Government.
Lack of Curb Appeal Hurts Dowtown
In Ashtabula, Ohio, City Manager Tony Cantagallo is incensed that a handful of downtown businesses neglecting their storefronts are holding back the attempts to revitalize Main Avenue.
Revitalization, Without Gentrification
That's the trick architect Gregory Henriquez is trying to pull off in a rundown section of Vancouver, in one of the biggest redevelopment projects the city has seen yet.
Fort Collins is Feelin' Fine
This Colorado city and four others across the nation have made early moves toward sustainability, innovation, and clean technology.
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.
City of Moorpark
City of Tustin
Tyler Technologies
City of Camden Redevelopment Agency
City of Astoria
Transportation Research & Education Center (TREC) at Portland State University
Regional Transportation Commission of Southern Nevada
Toledo-Lucas County Plan Commissions
