The recent building spree of high rises in Philadelphia requires more oversight from planners if it is to truly benefit the city, argues one critic.
"Although some Philadelphians will object to any tall building, it's hard to deny that the recent crop of high-rises in Center City and along the rivers has brought an infusion of new glamour and vigor. Tall buildings concentrate a lot of people in a small area, helping to support shops, restaurants and lively street life. Densely populated neighborhoods are a great deterrent against crime - the hot-button issue of the summer - because all those eyes on the street make it harder for criminals to do business.
Still, there is also no denying that big buildings leave big footprints. That's why Philadelphia's towers should be reviewed by someone other than an overworked permit examiner sitting in a basement cubicle at the Department of Licenses and Inspections. A high-rise design must do more than simply conform to a generic zoning code; it needs to adhere to Philadelphia's cherished urban values."
FULL STORY: Changing Skyline Towering lack of oversight

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.

Ken Jennings Launches Transit Web Series
The Jeopardy champ wants you to ride public transit.

How Project Connect Would Change ‘The Drag’
A popular — and sometimes deadly — Austin road will exchange car lanes for light rail.

Milwaukee Road to Get Complete Streets Upgrades
The city will reduce vehicle lanes and build a protected multi-use trail including bioswales and other water retention features on its ‘secret highway.’

Tackling Soil Contamination With Nature-Based Solutions
Los Angeles County residents and experts are turning to nature-based methods like bioremediation to address long-standing and fire-exacerbated soil contamination without resorting to costly and disruptive removal.
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