Cities and states are rolling back support for artificial turf, which can leach chemicals and microplastics into groundwater.

Local governments are starting to address the environmental impacts of artificial turf, which grew in popularity in recent decades as an alternative to thirsty natural grass.
In an article for Route Fifty, Kaitlyn Levinson explains that artificial turf can contain toxic materials like PFAS and leach fossil fuel-based materials into local groundwater. States like California, which in 2015 barred local jurisdictions from banning artificial turf, are now rethinking that decision. “In October 2023, Gov. Gavin Newsom signed a bill that still prohibits cities and counties from banning drought-tolerant lawns consisting of living plants, but does allow them to ban synthetic grass.”
For property owners looking for turf alternatives, landscaping with native vegetation offers another option. “Biodiverse landscapes containing native plants and vegetation, for instance, can help communities strengthen local ecosystems and build climate resilience.”
FULL STORY: Turf wars: States, cities grow skeptical of artificial grass

Planetizen Federal Action Tracker
A weekly monitor of how Trump’s orders and actions are impacting planners and planning in America.

Chicago’s Ghost Rails
Just beneath the surface of the modern city lie the remnants of its expansive early 20th-century streetcar system.

Amtrak Cutting Jobs, Funding to High-Speed Rail
The agency plans to cut 10 percent of its workforce and has confirmed it will not fund new high-speed rail projects.

Ohio Forces Data Centers to Prepay for Power
Utilities are calling on states to hold data center operators responsible for new energy demands to prevent leaving consumers on the hook for their bills.

MARTA CEO Steps Down Amid Citizenship Concerns
MARTA’s board announced Thursday that its chief, who is from Canada, is resigning due to questions about his immigration status.

Silicon Valley ‘Bike Superhighway’ Awarded $14M State Grant
A Caltrans grant brings the 10-mile Central Bikeway project connecting Santa Clara and East San Jose closer to fruition.
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