Forum Barcelona 2004, an upcoming sustainable development themed-event, is faced with criticism from local groups who contend that it does not practice what is preaches.
Forum Barcelona 2004 is "a gleaming seaside complex built for 141 days of debates and performances that will aim to promote peace, sustainable development and cultural diversity....Yet for all the good intentions and fine infrastructure, the Forum has not won over all Barcelona's hearts." Over a hundred neighborhood groups have voiced opposition to the Forum, alleging that the event is really just a '"massive real estate operation."' Critics contend that "the development would draw yet more tourists to Barcelona but would bring few benefits for residents of the nearby neighborhoods." However, the Forum's spokesperson adds "that far from hiding the urban planning dimension of the Forum, organizers are open about that agenda. 'Barcelona is a city that has been looking for excuses to redevelop for about 100 years,' he says."
Thanks to Connie Chung
FULL STORY: Want to Put the World to Rights? Visit Barcelona

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