Despite ever-stricter air-quality regulations and dropping emissions, the American Lung Association once again finds the state to have some of the worst air in the nation.
As it has many times in its 19-year history, the “State of the Air” survey by the American Lung Association named Los Angeles-Long Beach as the most ozone-polluted city in the nation, reports USA Today.
The only two cities in the top 10 that are not in California are Phoenix (8th) and New York (10th).
The question the article asks, of course, is “Since California is known for its strict environmental regulations, why are so many cities from the state typically on this list?”
It’s similar to a question recently posed by Planetizen’s Irvin David about what he calls the “Southern California Air Quality Paradox:” since emissions are dropping, why is air quality getting worse?
FULL STORY: California has eight of 10 most polluted U.S. cities
Under Pressure, EPA Tightens Soot Standard
In what could be viewed as a classic environmentalist vs. business showdown, the EPA tightened by 20% the annual standard for soot over the objection of industry and some in Congress who fear it will dampen economic growth.
City of Los Angeles Tops 4 Million in Latest State Population Report
As usual, California's fastest growing counties were inland, far from coastal job centers. The big surprise was that the fastest growing city was an affluent Silicon Valley suburb that had been sued in 2012 by affordable housing advocates.
A 'Good News' Air Pollution Study for a Change
Too often we report on new studies showing how air pollution worsens public health, often causing premature death. For a change, here's a study showing how efforts to improve air quality in Southern California have boosted public health in children.
The Triboro Line Has New Life as the 'Interborough Express'
A proposed transit line that would connect three New York City boroughs not named Manhattan has new, powerful political support.
Planning Trends to Watch in 2022
Building a framework of understanding for the year to come.
Mixed-Income 'Eco-Village' Planned in Michigan
A net-zero emissions development near Ann Arbor hopes to provide a model for sustainable communities.
600 Demolished Housing Units and a Development Controversy in Downtown Reno
A developer with a pattern of tearing down affordable housing units in Reno is attracting negative public attention in Reno, Nevada.
More Colorado Suburbs at Risk for Wildfires
Experts warn that more intense fires fueled by a warming climate are threatening an increasing number of Colorado's suburban communities.
Federal Railroad Administration Proposes New Midwest Rail Network
If built, regional high-speed rail networks could provide an alternative to uncomfortable air travel and prevent travelers from becoming stranded at airports during extreme weather.
City of Turlock, California
City of Baytown
City of Charlotte
HUD's Office of Policy Development and Research
HUD's Office of Policy Development and Research
HUD's Office of Policy Development and Research
Ferguson Township, Centre County, PA
Town of Palm Beach
Benton-Franklin Council of Governments (BFCOG)
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.
Hand Drawing Master Plans
This course aims to provide an introduction into Urban Design Sketching focused on how to hand draw master plans using a mix of colored markers.
