Rural areas have been attracting a lot attention for news sources traditionally devoted to urban news and information. A new report from the Brookings Institution is the latest example.
Hanna Love and Mike Powe write on the subject of building resilient rural places, sharing research that offers a prescription for the rural planning status quo, which relies on outdated, inaccurate stereotypes.
The research focuses on Main Streets as a key driver of equitable economic recovery; local solutions for rural small businesses; and a flexible, accessible, and healthy built environment. More details on those themes are included in the source article.
The research from the Brooking Institution is the latest in a stream of new research attempting to overturn stereotypes about rural areas (a trend which might have at least a little extra cultural relevance thanks to the intense debate over the film adaptation of Hillbilly Elegy, by J.D. Vance.)
Previous Planetizen coverage of recent rural research:
3 Myths About Rural America and How to Debunk Them
The effort to debunk common myths about rural America in academia and the news media continues.
The Impact of COVID-19 on Rural Areas
As the coronavirus outbreak surges across the country, many rural communities are now seeing an unprecedented spike in infections and hospitalizations.
Toward Better 'Rural Places and Planning'
The authors of the new book "Rural Places and Planning" expand beyond stereotypes of the rural to describe a more supportive approach to rural planning.
2024: The Year in Zoning
Cities and states are leaning on zoning reform to help stem the housing crisis and create more affordable, livable neighborhoods.
NACTO Releases Updated Urban Bikeway Guide
The third edition of the nationally recognized road design guide includes detailed design advice for roads that prioritize safety and accessibility for all users.
Research Affirms Safety of ‘Idaho Stop’
Allowing cyclists to treat stop signs as yield signs does not negatively impact safety and can help people on bikes more effectively navigate roadways.
America’s Housing Crisis: Lessons Ignored and Challenges Ahead
A recent study reveals how decades of policy missteps, demographic shifts, and economic forces fueled America’s housing crisis, leaving millions — especially millennials — struggling amid rising demand, racial disparities, and climate-driven emergencies.
Altadena’s Resilience: Restoring a Fire-Ravaged Community
The Eaton Fire has devastated Altadena, destroying homes, cultural landmarks, and community institutions, while residents rally to rebuild and preserve the town's rich history, diversity, and neighborly character.
Chicago Transit Leaders Call for $1.5B Funding Package
Public transit across the Chicagoland region could suffer massive cuts without additional funding.
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Placer County
Skagit Transit
Berkeley County
Chaddick Institute at DePaul University
HUDs Office of Policy Development and Research
HUDs Office of Policy Development and Research
NYU Wagner Graduate School of Public Service
City of Cambridge, Maryland