The new planning and zoning tools needed to achieve a more sustainable and equitable urban form, according to urban planning consultant Howard Blackson III.
Einstein is often credited with saying, "the definition of insanity is doing the same thing over and over and expecting a different result." The same is true in planning. San Diego-based planning consultant, Howard Blackson III, argues that we are using the planning tools developed during the freeway and sprawl era to achieve the opposite result. Simply upzoning is inadequate to achieve modern planning goals. He writes that cities and counties should be using new tools like "form-based, place-based, or context-sensitive codes" that better encourage infill and density.
Blackson summarizes the urban growth models of Leon Krier (emulating organic growth) and Andres Duany (successional growth). He argues these models are the foundation for achieving more and better quality development that achieve modern planning goals. For the full discussion, please see the source article.
FULL STORY: It’s Time to Take the Keys Away from Granddad
Where 2024 Presidential Candidates Stand on 12 Issues Important to Urban Planners
Whether you’re yet undecided or have already cast your early vote, here is a roundup of the key positions of Vice President Kamala Harris and former President Donald Trump on important urban planning policies.
Amtrak Expanding Service in California’s Central Valley
Amtrak is planning a major expansion to the passenger rail lines connecting the Central Valley and the Bay Area.
Commentary: How Can We Solve America’s Affordable Housing Crisis? CDFIs are the Key
As financial institutions whose mission is to support underserved communities, community development financial institutions can be key partners to ensure public-private efforts to build affordable housing pencil out.
Denver Voters Approve Downtown Revitalization Bonds
The city wants to bring new projects and residents to the downtown core, where 13 million feet of vacant office and retail space await new tenants.
Seattle Has No Plans to Ditch Parking Requirements
An update to the city’s comprehensive plan will reduce, but not fully eliminate, parking mandates for housing developments.
Future of Public Lands Looks Litigious Under Trump
Experts say monuments and “unappropriated” federal lands will likely be the target for expanded drilling, mining, and other development under a new Trump administration.
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.
University of Southern California
City of Meridian
University of Calgary
HUDs Office of Policy Development and Research
HUDs Office of Policy Development and Research
HUDs Office of Policy Development and Research
Detroit Regional Partnership
San Joaquin LAFCo
City of South Portland