From Judi Dench to Queen Latifah, CityLab writers match transit systems with the personalities they think would make the best announcements.
Seth Rogen’s public service announcements on Canadian transit systems in Vancouver and Toronto inspired CityLab’s writers to nominate their own group of celebrity announcers. For example, they suggest that Jeffrey Wright, a Washington, D.C. native, take a break from Westworld to use his soothing voice in WMATA announcements. And that Lily Tomlin bring some comedy to the less-than-humorous New York subway system. They make compelling arguments for lots of voiceover contenders – even a non-human one.
FULL STORY: Which Celebrity Should Voice Your City's Transit Announcements?
As Canada Grows, Transit a Key Component of Success
The population in Canada will increase substantially in the future, and transit planning is crucial to ensuring that cities thrive.
Two Perspectives on Surging Canadian Housing Costs
Real estate prices in Toronto and Vancouver continue to rise, but there is not consensus about what is behind the growing housing crisis and the best solutions to pursue.
In Canada, Suburban Transit-Oriented Development on the Rise
Transit expansions are providing incentives to companies to locate outside of city centers, upending traditional housing, work, and commute patterns.
Maui's Vacation Rental Debate Turns Ugly
Verbal attacks, misinformation campaigns and fistfights plague a high-stakes debate to convert thousands of vacation rentals into long-term housing.
Planetizen Federal Action Tracker
A weekly monitor of how Trump’s orders and actions are impacting planners and planning in America.
In Urban Planning, AI Prompting Could be the New Design Thinking
Creativity has long been key to great urban design. What if we see AI as our new creative partner?
King County Supportive Housing Program Offers Hope for Unhoused Residents
The county is taking a ‘Housing First’ approach that prioritizes getting people into housing, then offering wraparound supportive services.
Researchers Use AI to Get Clearer Picture of US Housing
Analysts are using artificial intelligence to supercharge their research by allowing them to comb through data faster. Though these AI tools can be error prone, they save time and housing researchers are optimistic about the future.
Making Shared Micromobility More Inclusive
Cities and shared mobility system operators can do more to include people with disabilities in planning and operations, per a new report.
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.
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