By banning chain stores in a four block area, planners may attempt to keep gentrification in check around popular and super-hip Hayes Valley.
Gourmet restaurants and pricey accessory stores are now the norm in Hayes Valley, but the four block area used to be an neighborhood filled with liquor, drugs and prostitution. Some local businesses that helped fuel the turnaround are now being forced out by the high rents. But who deserves to enjoy the fruits of the recent revitalization? "When de Jager [a Hayes Valley heating and plumbing business owner] wants a cocktail after work, he'd like something cheaper than the $7 offerings at fashionable Absinthe across the street. Especially for drinks with names like "Dapper Apple."'
Thanks to Ratna Amin
FULL STORY: A changing Hayes Valley wants to retain funky vibe

Alabama: Trump Terminates Settlements for Black Communities Harmed By Raw Sewage
Trump deemed the landmark civil rights agreement “illegal DEI and environmental justice policy.”

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

Why Should We Subsidize Public Transportation?
Many public transit agencies face financial stress due to rising costs, declining fare revenue, and declining subsidies. Transit advocates must provide a strong business case for increasing public transit funding.

Blinded by the Light: When Brighter Headlights Decrease Safety
Bright LED headlights can create glare and reduce visibility for other drivers and pedestrians.

Study Links Covid and Poor Driving
The effects of the virus, including ‘brain fog,’ can make driving more difficult and dangerous.

Waymo Gets Permission to Map SF’s Market Street
If allowed to operate on the traffic-restricted street, Waymo’s autonomous taxis would have a leg up over ride-hailing competitors — and counter the city’s efforts to grow bike and pedestrian on the thoroughfare.
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.
Caltrans
Smith Gee Studio
Institute for Housing and Urban Development Studies (IHS)
City of Grandview
Harvard GSD Executive Education
Toledo-Lucas County Plan Commissions
Salt Lake City
NYU Wagner Graduate School of Public Service