Proponents say cul-de-sac streets provide safety and serenity. Opponents say they are isolating and ironically dangerous to the children they purport to protect. This key American-Dream icon is increasingly in the crosshairs of progressive planners.
This NPR story reveals both sides of a growing debate on the pros and cons of a still-popular American ideal, the cul-de-sac street. Though still counterintuitive to many (especially those that still live on cul-de-sacs for their safety and quiet), new research shows that these dead-end streets are not so safe and serene. Researchers into the dangers of cul-de-sacs find, for example, many cases of terrible accidents involving driving parents backing over their own children, who were playing in the "safe" driveways and street.
Thanks to Evan Lowenstein
FULL STORY: Cul-de-Sacs: Suburban Dream or Dead End?

Trump Administration Could Effectively End Housing Voucher Program
Federal officials are eyeing major cuts to the Section 8 program that helps millions of low-income households pay rent.

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

Canada vs. Kamala: Whose Liberal Housing Platform Comes Out on Top?
As Canada votes for a new Prime Minister, what can America learn from the leading liberal candidate of its neighbor to the north?

Paris Voters Approve More Car-Free Streets
Paris Mayor Anne Hidalgo says the city will develop a plan to close 500 streets to car traffic and add new bike and pedestrian infrastructure after a referendum on the proposal passed with 66 percent of the vote.

Making Mobility More Inclusive
A new study highlights the challenges people with disabilities continue to face in navigating urban spaces.

Texas Bills Could Push More People Into Homelessness
A proposal to speed up the eviction process and a bill that would accelerate enforcement of an existing camping ban could make the state’s homelessness crisis worse, advocates say.
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