A number of innovative new bicycle designs were on display at this year's International Bicycle Design Competition, including a bike that folds into its own backpack carrying case -- making it easy to take on public transit.
"Shape shifting designs that provide convenient portability and storage options and push the boundaries of people's accepted ideas of the bike came to the fore at the recent International Bicycle Design Competition (IBDC). The standout example was the third placed the Everglide concept, an innovative multi-purpose design that integrates a bicycle with a backpack.
Everglide, from Australian designer Frag Woodall, can be folded down into its rear carry-case meaning it can be wheeled, backpacked or cycled. The integrated solution satisfies all kinds of needs for short-distance cyclists and is able to be carried on other forms of public transport such as trams, trains and buses."
"Another unusual collapsible entry is the Lohas hybrid bike by Chen Wei-Ping from Taiwan. This simple and streamlined design uses a combination of pedal power and a built-in windmill to recharge the battery pack. When stationary, the main "windmill" wheel of the Lohas Bike can be faced towards the breeze and continue its function as a recharging device.
Another notable designs is the Grasshopper from David Moreira Goncalves of Portugal - another foldable, electric bicycle that can be carried onto public transport with ease and also produce electricity when used as an exercise bike at home."
FULL STORY: Shape-shifting bicycles to redefine the urban commute

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?

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.

Paris Voters Approve More Car-Free Streets
Paris Mayor Anne Hidalgo says the city will develop a plan to close 500 streets to car traffic and add new bike and pedestrian infrastructure after a referendum on the proposal passed with 66 percent of the vote.

Making Mobility More Inclusive
A new study highlights the challenges people with disabilities continue to face in navigating urban spaces.
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
Toledo-Lucas County Plan Commissions
Salt Lake City
NYU Wagner Graduate School of Public Service