A major plan to improve Sydney's walkability, urban design and public transit system have been applauded throughout the city. The only problem is figuring out how to pay for it.
"An ambitious plan to remake Sydney is a 'grand project and a grand vision' but lacks some vital details, Sydney Lord Mayor Clover Moore says."
"For instance, no-one appears to know how much it will cost or who will foot the bill."
"Under the proposals, based on the ideas of Danish architect Jan Gehl, George Street would become a pedestrian mall and the Western Distributor would be buried beneath a revitalised Darling Harbour."
"A light rail loop would also be established between Central and Circular Quay, and retail and business development would be built over the rail lines near Central Station."
"The plan has been applauded by industry groups and even received the qualified backing of the state government."
"But asked about the cost of the various projects, and who would pay for it, neither the lord mayor nor economics and planning expert Pat Fensham could say."
Thanks to ArchNewsNow
FULL STORY: New Sydney 'all about sustainability'

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.
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.
Appalachian Highlands Housing Partners
Gallatin County Department of Planning & Community Development
Heyer Gruel & Associates PA
Mpact (founded as Rail~Volution)
City of Camden Redevelopment Agency
City of Astoria
City of Portland
City of Laramie