There's no looking back now in the shift away from suburbs to a more sustainable urban model, writes Andre Shashaty, president of the Partnership for Sustainable Communities.
"The time has come to declare that the "General Motors model" of urban planning is officially bankrupt. We must reinvest in existing urban centers, because reusing the infrastructure and restoring underutilized real estate is far more environmentally efficient than new construction, no matter how green that construction is. It's also time to change local land use laws to promote more compact development around transit and the availability of affordable housing close to jobs and services."
"A reversal of the ill effects of sprawl will take committed local officials who are willing to change land use policy and zoning even in the face of resistance. Architects, real estate developers, bankers, and city planners must collaborate to create vibrant urban spaces that meet consumers' needs."
Thanks to Deirdre Greene
FULL STORY: Rethinking Sixty Years of Sprawl
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Seattle Legalizes Co-Living
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Anchorage Bus Depot to Reopen
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Mapping a Greener Future: Cal Poly Tackles Urban Canopy Challenges
Cal Poly, in partnership with Cal Fire, is leading the development of California’s new Strategic Plan for Urban Forestry, combining advanced data tools and interdisciplinary collaboration to expand tree canopy cover.
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.
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American Planning Association, Sustainable Communities Division
HUDs Office of Policy Development and Research
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