The Daily Source of Urban Planning News

San Jose Homeowners Can Now Sell ADUs as Condos
A new policy could help boost the supply of smaller, more affordable ‘starter homes’ in the first California city to legalize the sale of ADUs.

University of Hawaiʻi Researchers Assess Impacts of Maui Fires and Support Recovery
One year after the devastating Maui wildfires, UH researchers are addressing the disaster's impacts through studies on health, environmental contamination, disaster preparedness, and housing, aiming to support recovery and improve resilience.

Western States Face New Round of Water Cuts
In Nevada, efforts to conserve water include a ban on ornamental grass and regulations on swimming pool sizes.

California Could Extend Oil Well Monitoring Deadlines
Legislators are considering extending the deadline for new oil well safety regulations by up to 54 months, sparking controversy over whether the delay benefits the oil industry at the expense of public health.

Building Healthier Communities: The Role of GIS in Park Planning
Integrating Geographic Information Systems (GIS) into park planning enhances community health by promoting physical activity, supporting mental well-being, fostering social connectedness, and addressing public health crises and climate change.

Site of Race Riot in Springfield, Illinois, Designated as National Monument
President Biden has designated the site of the 1908 Springfield race riot as a national monument, honoring its historical significance.

Language Matters: “Climate Change” Generates More Concern Than “Climate Crisis”
A recent study found that the terms “climate change” and “global warming” are more familiar and generate greater public concern than less recognized terms like “climate crisis” and “climate justice.”

NJ Transit Fare Holiday Announcement Draws Mixed Reactions
New Jersey officials say the fare-free week is a “thank you” to loyal transit riders after a summer of service disruptions; transit advocates say it’s a gimmick and longer-term solutions are needed.

Property Taxes Cuts on the Ballot in at Least Eight States
From completely eliminating property tax to creating new exemptions, voters in eight states across the country will cast their votes on a variety of ballot measures that could have major implications for local budgets.

Spokane Could Eliminate Parking Minimums Near Transit
A Washington state proposal to reduce parking minimums failed in the state legislature earlier this year.

Las Vegas BRT Line Breaks Ground
The new bus project will include pedestrian and bike improvements along a 12-mile stretch of the Maryland Parkway.

Pennsylvania Adopts State Transportation Plan
The plan addresses roads, transit, and other transportation infrastructure over the next 12 years.

DOJ Issues Warning to Local Governments with 'Crime-Free' Housing Programs
The Justice Department has put local governments with “crime-free” and “nuisance” housing programs on notice that implementation may be unlawful when it unfairly penalizes classes of people protected under federal law.

Affordable Housing Bond Nixed From the California Ballot
Supporters of the proposed bond say the measure will have more success in the future.

Boston AI Pilot Optimizes Traffic Light Timing
The program has led to reductions in stop-and-go traffic of as much as 50 percent.

Transit Crime Down in NYC, Minneapolis
The two cities launched targeted efforts to improve security and offer supportive services to transit users.

How Hawaii Can Make the Most of its ADU Law
The state recently legalized accessory dwelling units in residential districts, but there’s more state lawmakers can do to reduce other hurdles to large-scale ADU production.

Will This Resident Group Get Full Control of the Complex They Helped Fix?
A group of Cambodian immigrants took partial control of an affordable housing property in the 90s, and since then, they’ve made big changes to the complex. But they haven’t been able to get full legal control of the property for decades. Why?

Do Americans Want Women-Only Subway Cars?
Results from a YouGov survey indicate there is interest in subway and train cars being designated as women only, especially among female riders, younger riders, and people who have had negative interactions on public transportation.

Denver Could Add Bike Lanes to Major Streets
City planners say limiting protected bike infrastructure to smaller streets isn’t enough to create a safe, connected bikeway network that reaches all parts of the city.
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