Mobile Bay, Fairhope in Alabama is fast becoming a popular retirement spot. It has all the right amenities.
"Alabama certainly gets hot and sticky in the summer. But that's where the cliches seem to end. Sitting on the bluffs of Mobile Bay, Fairhope -- long a haven for artists and writers -- is becoming popular among retirees. The town and surrounding area, according to transplants, have a character that defies Southern stereotypes.
... But quaint is giving way to busy. Fairhope's population, which now stands at about 13,100, has jumped about 28% since 1990. Mobile Bay prevents the town from developing to its west. East of the city, though, rolling farmland is now dotted with subdivisions and shopping centers. Residents worry that the fast-paced growth will jeopardize the small-town feel."
[Editor's note: The link below is available to non-subscribers for a period of 7 days.]
Thanks to Chris Steins
FULL STORY: Southern Coastal Town Attracts Eager Retirees
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
Gallatin County Department of Planning & Community Development
Mpact (founded as Rail~Volution)
City of Camden Redevelopment Agency
City of Astoria
City of Portland
City of Laramie