LA Times Architecture Critic Nicolai Ouroussoff criticizes the new Freedom Tower design for the WTC site, and argues that it is an example of how real estate limits the democratic design process.
"Since the twin towers were destroyed by terrorist attacks more than two years ago, politicians, architects and planners have stressed that the symbolic importance of the site demanded a level of design above the norm. They have also paid a great deal of lip service to the public process, repeatedly claiming that the design would be shaped to reflect the nature of the tragedy. In truth, ground zero is primarily about real estate....It is in that sense that the tower design should be read with skepticism. The second-rate quality speaks to the limits of the democratic process when it comes face to face with commerce."
Thanks to Connie Chung
FULL STORY: Capitalism Tops Democracy in Tower's Design
Planetizen Federal Action Tracker
A weekly monitor of how Trump’s orders and actions are impacting planners and planning in America.
Canada vs. Kamala: Whose Liberal Housing Platform Comes Out on Top?
As Canada votes for a new Prime Minister, what can America learn from the leading liberal candidate of its neighbor to the north?
The Five Most-Changed American Cities
A ranking of population change, home values, and jobs highlights the nation’s most dynamic and most stagnant regions.
Op-Ed: Why Mobility Is Political
The freedom to move remains unevenly distributed between people of different backgrounds.
Bringing Community Voices Into Renewable Energy Planning
The MIT Renewable Energy Clinic helps coastal communities navigate the complexities of offshore wind development through neutral, inclusive engagement that surfaces local concerns and supports fair decision-making.
Creating Ocean-Safe Plastic from Seashells
USC researchers have created a biodegradable, marine-safe plastic alternative using calcium carbonate from seashells, offering a promising solution to ocean pollution.
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.
New York City School Construction Authority
Village of Glen Ellyn
Central Transportation Planning Staff/Boston Region MPO
Institute for Housing and Urban Development Studies (IHS)
City of Grandview
Harvard GSD Executive Education
Regional Transportation Commission of Southern Nevada
Toledo-Lucas County Plan Commissions