Economists debate whether the future New Orleans be downsized? 'Colonial Williamsburg' and other controversial models are pondered.
"Some economists are starting to wonder if Mr. Hastert might have had a point about caution when it comes to rebuilding New Orleans, as poorly articulated as it might have been. It's not just the city's natural disadvantages (much of it is located below sea level) that worry economists. It's also its economic position -- rampant poverty and an exodus of people and businesses even before the hurricane touched down -- and the need to avoid creating incentives that could lead to development that is no less vulnerable."
[Editor's note: This article is availabel to non-subscribers.]
FULL STORY: Scaling Back New Orleans

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

San Francisco's School District Spent $105M To Build Affordable Housing for Teachers — And That's Just the Beginning
SFUSD joins a growing list of school districts using their land holdings to address housing affordability challenges faced by their own employees.

The Tiny, Adorable $7,000 Car Turning Japan Onto EVs
The single seat Mibot charges from a regular plug as quickly as an iPad, and is about half the price of an average EV.

Seattle's Plan for Adopting Driverless Cars
Equity, safety, accessibility and affordability are front of mind as the city prepares for robotaxis and other autonomous vehicles.

As Trump Phases Out FEMA, Is It Time to Flee the Floodplains?
With less federal funding available for disaster relief efforts, the need to relocate at-risk communities is more urgent than ever.

With Protected Lanes, 460% More People Commute by Bike
For those needing more ammo, more data proving what we already knew is here.
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