The Project for Public Spaces offers this checklist to help determine if your city is a "great" city.
"Community goals are a top priority in city planning:
- Citizens regularly participate in making their public spaces better and local leaders and planning professionals routinely seek the wisdom and practical experience of community residents.
- Residents feel they have responsibility and a sense of ownership for their public spaces."
"Public spaces are accessible and well-used
- There are public places within both neighborhoods and downtowns where people can gather informally and regularly.
- Parks feature attractions for people of different ages and are used at different times of day; they are more than simply recreation facilities.
- The waterfront allows people to actually reach the ocean, lake or river.
- Amenities (benches, transit waiting areas, etc) are comfortable, conveniently located and designed to support the intended use.
- Negative uses or users do not dominate the public spaces.
- Both children and seniors can easily and safely walk to where they want to go (e.g. children can walk to school, seniors can walk to movies, grocery stores)."
FULL STORY: Is Your City a Great City?

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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?
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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.

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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.
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