Urban cores have undergone a long period of depopulation and depression. But with cities across the country attempting to bring these areas back, a few simple strategies are laying the groundwork.
"Sadly, many of America's urban areas have 'died on the vine', and city and business leaders are now faced with the tremendous task of revitalizing these downtown cores. In fact, 62 percent of all major city population growth in the 1990s occurred along suburban borders, compared to just 11 percent in city cores, according to a report from the Brookings Institution's Center on Urban and Metropolitan Policy."
"A lack of investment in the downtown cores contributed to the decline and now cities across the nation are trying to figure out how they can take their urban centers from vacant to vibrant. Experts suggest three main strategies: create an organization to bring together business leaders and city officials; design a masterplan to encourage investment; and develop a way to leverage any special attractions in the downtown core."
FULL STORY: Urban Revitalization - Creating a catalyst for downtown redevelopment
Seattle Legalizes Co-Living
A new state law requires all Washington cities to allow co-living facilities in areas zoned for multifamily housing.
Central Florida’s SunRail Plans Major Expansion
The expanded train line will connect more destinations to the international airport and other important destinations.
NYC Officials Announce Broadway Pedestrianization Project
Two blocks of the marquee street will become mostly car-free public spaces.
Santa Monica Lowers Speed Limits
Posted speed limits will be reduced by 5 miles per hour on dozens of the city’s streets.
For Some, Co-Housing Offers Social and Economic Benefits
Residents of co-living developments say the built-in community helps ease the growing isolation felt by many Americans.
New Map Puts Bay Area Traffic Data in One Place
The Traffic Monitoring site uses community-collected speed and volume data to reveal traffic patterns on local roads.
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.
Heyer Gruel & Associates PA
Caltrans
Los Alamos County
American Planning Association, Sustainable Communities Division
HUDs Office of Policy Development and Research
HUDs Office of Policy Development and Research
City of Cambridge, Maryland
Newport County Development Council: Connect Greater Newport
Rockdale County Board of Commissioners