A new program in an old Maryland neighborhood could spark an historic resurrection.
"With the help of a city government program designed to encourage investment in older neighborhoods, [young people in Westminster] can use money they otherwise would have spent buying the home to pay for the renovations...That's exactly what Westminster housing officials had in mind when they started a program in 2002 to encourage homeownership in the city's older neighborhoods...[there] was a hesitation among real estate agents to suggest homes in older neighborhoods based on a reluctance of their clients to consider older neighborhoods." In response, "City housing officials began a small marketing campaign. They created a photo-filled brochure that promoted the charm of owning a home with historic character while trying to entice potential homebuyers with a small incentive. The program, which was launched in 2002 with a $20,000 state grant, offers financial assistance to homebuyers who purchase older homes within the Old Town Westminster district...In the first year, the money was gone within months, with 10 recipients receiving $2,000 each to cover home closing costs."
Thanks to David Gest
FULL STORY: Old neighborhoods getting new life

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?

USGS Water Science Centers Targeted for Closure
If their work is suspended, states could lose a valuable resource for monitoring, understanding, and managing water resources.

House Moves to Rescind California’s Emissions Standards
The state has been allowed to set its own emissions goals, including a mandate to transition to electric or zero-emissions vehicles by 2035.

Portland Proposal Would Suspend Development Fees to Spur Housing Construction
Oregon Gov. Tina Kotek and Portland Mayor Keith Wilson announced their policy plan Thursday, with the goal to jumpstart housing construction.

Honolulu Community College Celebrates Culture and Sustainability
Honolulu Community College brought together more than 320 students, staff, and community members for a day of Hawaiian cultural activities, music, and sustainability-focused learning at its annual Hoʻolauleʻa celebration.
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
Chaddick Institute at DePaul University
Institute for Housing and Urban Development Studies (IHS)
City of Grandview
Regional Transportation Commission of Southern Nevada
Toledo-Lucas County Plan Commissions