A San Francisco ordinance would restrict 'formula retail stores' from entering the Hayes Valley community.
"The measure... bans chains with more than 11 outlets and a standardized look from opening in the trendy-chic enclave of Hayes Valley... It places tight restrictions on any chain store hoping to move into Cole Valley where residents and merchants recently fought a losing battle to keep out Walgreens after learning of its lease too late. And it requires all chain stores to notify neighbors of plans to open in any of the city's designated Neighborhood Commercial Districts."
Thanks to Chris Steins
FULL STORY: Neighborhood Pride Prompts Effort to Limit Chain Stores

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.
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