The Supreme Court rules that government can be required to compensate owners for takings, even when property owners buy land with pre-existing zoning regulations.
"The ruling concerned cases in which property owners buy land knowing that it is subject to environmental or zoning limits -- such as restrictions on developing wetlands or fragile beaches. In a splintered decision that involved shifting majorities on different aspects of the case, five justices said even when such limits are already in place, they can amount to a "taking" from the new owner and require compensation by the government." The ruling astounded many land use professionals, and dramatically impacts the ability of local government to protect environmentally-sensitive lands. The ruling also opens the door for a flood of litigation from owners and developers challenging environmental and zoning regulations and seeking millions in compensatory damages.
Thanks to Chris Steins
FULL STORY: Landowners Given New Rights on Environmental Curbs

Planetizen Federal Action Tracker
A weekly monitor of how Trump’s orders and actions are impacting planners and planning in America.

Chicago’s Ghost Rails
Just beneath the surface of the modern city lie the remnants of its expansive early 20th-century streetcar system.

Amtrak Cutting Jobs, Funding to High-Speed Rail
The agency plans to cut 10 percent of its workforce and has confirmed it will not fund new high-speed rail projects.

Ohio Forces Data Centers to Prepay for Power
Utilities are calling on states to hold data center operators responsible for new energy demands to prevent leaving consumers on the hook for their bills.

MARTA CEO Steps Down Amid Citizenship Concerns
MARTA’s board announced Thursday that its chief, who is from Canada, is resigning due to questions about his immigration status.

Silicon Valley ‘Bike Superhighway’ Awarded $14M State Grant
A Caltrans grant brings the 10-mile Central Bikeway project connecting Santa Clara and East San Jose closer to fruition.
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