Private outdoor space, such as balconies and terraces, are valuable assets to highrise urban dwellers in New York City -- at least, on paper. Whether or not they are actually used to enjoy the outdoors is another issue entirely.
"In the real estate market, outdoor space is gold. It's expensive, it's rare, and it can add enormous value to a home.
You would think then that people would not only want it, they would love it, use it, even flaunt it.
But New Yorkers have complex relationships with their outdoor spaces. At this time of year, as the weather grows warmer, their true feelings about those spaces are particularly manifest. Some residents are readying their flower boxes and painting their trellises, while other are doing what they always do - turning their backs on their balconies, which have become storage areas for things like rusty bikes and old doghouses."
FULL STORY: The High Life
Planetizen Federal Action Tracker
A weekly monitor of how Trump’s orders and actions are impacting planners and planning in America.
USGS Water Science Centers Targeted for Closure
If their work is suspended, states could lose a valuable resource for monitoring, understanding, and managing water resources.
Congress Moves to End Reconnecting Communities and Related Grants
The House Transportation and Infrastructure Committee moved to rescind funding for the Neighborhood Equity and Access program, which funds highway removals, freeway caps, transit projects, pedestrian infrastructure, and more.
Poor Conditions in Mobile Home Parks Put Residents at Risk
Failing infrastructure, poor water and air quality, and predatory owners endanger the health of manufactured home residents, many of whom are elderly and low-income.
How Complete Streets Stands to Lose in the FY26 ‘Skinny Budget’
The President’s proposed budget could cut key resources for active transportation, public transit, and road safety programs.
Dairy Queen and Rural Third Places
Dozens of Dairy Queen restaurants across Texas are closing, taking a critical community space with them.
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.
City of Moorpark
City of Tustin
Tyler Technologies
City of Astoria
Transportation Research & Education Center (TREC) at Portland State University
Chaddick Institute at DePaul University
Regional Transportation Commission of Southern Nevada
Toledo-Lucas County Plan Commissions