Canada's new urban reality is making provincial governments appear increasingly obsolete.
Canada's constitution, drafted in the 19th century when the nation's population was mostly agrarian, places cities firmly under the control of the provincial governments. Today, Canada has transformed into a highly urbanized society with emerging city-states and the proposition that the provinces should continue to be the overseers of the cities seems antiquated and obsolete. Whatever vestigial role provinces may have as a "repository of regional or ethnic identity" is increasingly diminishing as Canadians redefine themselves as members of local communities and also as global citizens. The irony is that, while provinces have historically lobbied the federal government for decentralization of powers, they are unlikely to be advocates for further decentralization to cities, which they increasingly perceive as a direct threat. However, the reality is that it will happen anyway.
Thanks to Geoffrey Singer
FULL STORY: Why power gravitating to cities

Maui's Vacation Rental Debate Turns Ugly
Verbal attacks, misinformation campaigns and fistfights plague a high-stakes debate to convert thousands of vacation rentals into long-term housing.

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

In Urban Planning, AI Prompting Could be the New Design Thinking
Creativity has long been key to great urban design. What if we see AI as our new creative partner?

King County Supportive Housing Program Offers Hope for Unhoused Residents
The county is taking a ‘Housing First’ approach that prioritizes getting people into housing, then offering wraparound supportive services.

Researchers Use AI to Get Clearer Picture of US Housing
Analysts are using artificial intelligence to supercharge their research by allowing them to comb through data faster. Though these AI tools can be error prone, they save time and housing researchers are optimistic about the future.

Making Shared Micromobility More Inclusive
Cities and shared mobility system operators can do more to include people with disabilities in planning and operations, per a new report.
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.
planning NEXT
Appalachian Highlands Housing Partners
Mpact (founded as Rail~Volution)
City of Camden Redevelopment Agency
City of Astoria
City of Portland
City of Laramie