Researchers study the effectiveness of growth management laws in the Smart Growth pioneer state.
In more than half the counties in Maryland, growth-management laws -- intended to "steer new development to existing urban areas to preserve open space" -- "are being misapplied by local officials in ways that inflate housing prices" and "divert new housing from areas designated for development under the state's Smart Growth law" adopted in 1997, according to a new study released by the University of Maryland. Researchers believe that "the so-called adequate public facilities ordinances have become de facto building moratoriums" and "seem to be frustrating the intent" of the Smart Growth law.
Thanks to Kui Zhao, AICP
FULL STORY: Growth laws aggravate sprawl, research says

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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