The plan seeks to expand the city's mixed use development and improve transit options. An alternative version of the plan, recommended by the City Plan Commission, was voted down as the city council opted for the original, slightly amended plan.
The comprehensive plan known as ForwardDallas! was approved by the Dallas City Council last week, with only two dissenting votes. Urban planner John Fregonese's plan had been in the works for more than 18 months, and while many in the city's government see it as a positive step, some feel there hasn't been enough public input.
" 'Dallas is the ninth-largest city in the nation, and we've only developed half of it,' council member Bill Blaydes said. The plan as passed, especially given its language on mass transit and southern-sector development, 'is a map by which the city can move forward.' "
"During a public hearing Wednesday prior to the vote, dozens of Dallas residents argued for and against the city staff's recommendation to the council."
"Cay Kolb, who supported the plan commission's amended version, wrote the council that the Forward Dallas planning process was 'fraudulent' and 'underhanded,' as 'public input has been suppressed; the staff has funneled a foregone conclusion upon which they are asking you to vote today.' "
FULL STORY: Forward Dallas proposal approved: Council backs city staff's land-use plan, rejects panel's version

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

Chicago’s Ghost Rails
Just beneath the surface of the modern city lie the remnants of its expansive early 20th-century streetcar system.

Amtrak Cutting Jobs, Funding to High-Speed Rail
The agency plans to cut 10 percent of its workforce and has confirmed it will not fund new high-speed rail projects.

Ohio Forces Data Centers to Prepay for Power
Utilities are calling on states to hold data center operators responsible for new energy demands to prevent leaving consumers on the hook for their bills.

MARTA CEO Steps Down Amid Citizenship Concerns
MARTA’s board announced Thursday that its chief, who is from Canada, is resigning due to questions about his immigration status.

Silicon Valley ‘Bike Superhighway’ Awarded $14M State Grant
A Caltrans grant brings the 10-mile Central Bikeway project connecting Santa Clara and East San Jose closer to fruition.
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