The Antelope Valley Poppy Reserve visitor center is so energy-efficient that is does not need an air conditioner or a furnace, despite fluctuating temperatures.
The center, designed and built in the early '80s, uses the desert sun for solar energy and mounds of dirt for insulation. The building also uses a passive cooling system to flush cool air throughout its rooms. The center, which was built for $450,000, was designed using a high-tech computer system to estimate the building's temperature changes. The Antelope Valley Poppy Reserve is just one of the California Department of Parks and Recreation's energy-efficient facilities.
Thanks to California 2000 Project
FULL STORY: HIGH DESERT FACILITY IS AN ENERGY MODEL
Seattle Legalizes Co-Living
A new state law requires all Washington cities to allow co-living facilities in areas zoned for multifamily housing.
Central Florida’s SunRail Plans Major Expansion
The expanded train line will connect more destinations to the international airport and other important destinations.
NYC Officials Announce Broadway Pedestrianization Project
Two blocks of the marquee street will become mostly car-free public spaces.
Santa Monica Lowers Speed Limits
Posted speed limits will be reduced by 5 miles per hour on dozens of the city’s streets.
For Some, Co-Housing Offers Social and Economic Benefits
Residents of co-living developments say the built-in community helps ease the growing isolation felt by many Americans.
New Map Puts Bay Area Traffic Data in One Place
The Traffic Monitoring site uses community-collected speed and volume data to reveal traffic patterns on local roads.
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.
Heyer Gruel & Associates PA
Caltrans
Los Alamos County
American Planning Association, Sustainable Communities Division
HUDs Office of Policy Development and Research
HUDs Office of Policy Development and Research
City of Cambridge, Maryland
Newport County Development Council: Connect Greater Newport
Rockdale County Board of Commissioners