"Crackpot schemes' or ambitious thinking? In the largest state in the nation, often criticized for "bridges to nowhere" visions, no idea is too outlandish.
"In this most giant of all the states, with vast natural resources and an edge-of-the-world mentality, Hickel is just one of many Alaskans who dream of carving the landscape or reaping its resources on a fantastic scale...It hasn't been a great year for Alaskan schemers, of course: The state's three-person congressional delegation has been widely ridiculed for backing federal projects that critics describe as silly "bridges to nowhere," textbook examples of porkbarrel spending run amok...
Although many Americans look at Alaska and see a magnificent wilderness that should largely be left alone, many Alaskans look at Alaska and see much to be done...Even today, Alaskan leaders are backing big projects â€" including drilling in the Arctic National Wildlife Refuge and creation of one of the world's biggest gold mines, near Bristol Bay â€" despite widespread environmental opposition."
FULL STORY: To Alaska's Big Dreamers, No Bridge Is Too Far

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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