Green spaces and parks are becoming increasingly important as more and more people inhabit urban areas.
"In communities around the world, this one included, interest in the public realm – parks, squares, plazas, piazzas – has never been greater."
"But Toronto, like many other cities, has neglected its green spaces and chronically underfunded them. As a result, there aren't enough parks to serve a growing population, and those we do have are deteriorating."
"Finally, even municipal politicians have realized that parks are not civic frills but urban necessities. The backdrop to this is a growing awareness that the future will unfold in cities. In Canada, for example, more than 80 per cent of the population now inhabit urban centres. And for the first time in history, more than half the planet's population lives in cities."
"With these growing urban populations comes growing need for communal spaces. Keep in mind, too, that many new urbanites live in highrise condos so small they barely have room to breathe. As a result, they look to the city to provide many of the features house-owners take for granted. In this sense, life in Toronto has become more European; we no longer just live in the city, we inhabit it. The city is where we eat, drink, sit outside, meet friends, or simply watch the passing parade."
FULL STORY: Why parks are important

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?

Washington State’s Parking Reform Law Could Unlock ‘Countless’ Acres for New Housing
A law that limits how much parking cities can require for residential amd commercial developments could lead to a construction boom.

Wildlife Rebounds After the Eaton Fire
Following the devastation of the Eaton Fire, the return of wildlife and the regrowth of native plants are offering powerful signs of resilience and renewal.

LA to Replace Inglewood Light Rail Project With Bus Shuttles
LA Metro says the change is in response to community engagement and that the new design will be ready before the 2028 Olympic Games.
Urban Design for Planners 1: Software Tools
This six-course series explores essential urban design concepts using open source software and equips planners with the tools they need to participate fully in the urban design process.
Planning for Universal Design
Learn the tools for implementing Universal Design in planning regulations.
Central Transportation Planning Staff/Boston Region MPO
Heyer Gruel & Associates PA
Institute for Housing and Urban Development Studies (IHS)
City of Grandview
Harvard GSD Executive Education
Regional Transportation Commission of Southern Nevada
Toledo-Lucas County Plan Commissions