A new report by the MaryPIRG Foundation shows strong links between highways and sprawl in Maryland.
An aggressive rate of highway construction has been a primary cause of sprawl in Maryland, according to a new report released today by the Maryland Public Interest Research Group (MaryPIRG). The study, "Paving the Way," gives concrete evidence using detailed data from the State of Maryland documenting the effect of highways on property development. An analysis of all developed residential and commercial properties in Central Maryland and the Eastern Shore in relation to all major highways indicates that highways act as magnets, drawing development outward from urban areas. The report also looks at the long range transportation plans currently in place and concludes that much more sprawl will result in the future unless the state dramatically redirects its transportation priorities. "Wherever a highway is built, sprawl follows," said MaryPIRG environmental associate Gigi Kellett.Governor Glendening has proposed two bills for the upcoming Maryland General Assembly session that would invest in public transit and existing communities, which are alternatives to highway building and sprawl. The report also includes several mini-movies of the emergence of sprawl.
Thanks to Chris Steins
FULL STORY: Report looks at intersection of highways and sprawl
The Mall Is Dead — Long Live the Mall
The American shopping mall may be closer to its original vision than ever.
The Paradox of American Housing
How the tension between housing as an asset and as an essential good keeps the supply inadequate and costs high.
Report: Las Vegas, Houston Top List of Least Affordable Cities
The report assesses the availability of affordable rental units for low-income households.
Anchorage Leaders Debate Zoning Reform Plan
Last year, the city produced the fewest new housing units in a decade.
How to Protect Pedestrians With Disabilities
Public agencies don’t track traffic deaths and injuries involving disabled people, leaving a gap in data to guide safety interventions.
Colorado Town Fills Workforce Housing Need With ‘Dorm-Style’ Housing
Median rent in Steamboat Springs is $4,000 per month.
City of Yakima
City of Auburn
Baylands Development Inc.
HUD's Office of Policy Development and Research
Mpact Transit + Community
HUD's Office of Policy Development and Research
City of Birmingham, Alabama
City of Laramie, Wyoming
Town of Zionsville
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.