The American Cities Climate Challenge seeks to green the carbon-heavy transportation and building sectors.

A new initiative from Michael Bloomberg aims to help large U.S. cities achieve their near-term greenhouse gas emission reduction goals. The $70 million American Cities Climate Challenge is a two-year accelerator that provides a package of resources and technical support to local governments focused particularly on the transportation and building sectors, which Metro Magazine explains "typically total 90% of citywide emissions and are areas over which mayors have significant authority."
Twenty winning "Leadership Cities," selected through a competitive process, will receive funding for a Climate Advisor to develop policy; data and design resources; rapid response grants; and peer-to-peer networking, among other types of assistance. Groups offering their expertise include the Natural Resources Defense Council and Delivery Associates.
The challenge is open to the 100 most populous American cities whose mayors signed onto the "We Are Still In" declaration, committing to fulfilling the goals of the Paris Agreement despite the withdrawal of the U.S. in 2017.
FULL STORY: Bloomberg launches $70M challenge for cities fighting climate change

Planetizen’s Top Planning Books of 2023
The world is changing, and planning with it.

Chicago Red Line Extension Could Transform the South Side
The city’s transit agency is undertaking its biggest expansion ever to finally bring rail to the South Side.

How ‘Daylighting’ Intersections Can Save Lives
Eliminating visual obstructions can make intersections safer for all users.

San Jose Affordable Housing Development Gains Approval
A proposed project is moving forward with reduced building heights and all-affordable units.

Oklahoma City Begins Work on Parking-Protected Bike Lane
The project is part of the city’s broader plan to improve bike and pedestrian infrastructure and road safety.

How Cities Can Avoid Perpetuating Segregation
Residents of big cities, known as the ‘melting pots’ of America, have fewer interactions with people outside their socioeconomic group than those in smaller communities, according to new research.
City of Morganton
San Joaquin County
University of New Mexico - School of Architecture & Planning
HUD's Office of Policy Development and Research
HUD's Office of Policy Development and Research
Chaddick Institute at DePaul University
Park City Municipal Corporation
National Capital Planning Commission
City of Santa Fe, New Mexico
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.