Cities in California's Central Valley are looking at the economic downturn as an opportunity for planners to focus on long-range work. But layoffs in planning departments are making that hard to do.
"The recession has smothered demand for reviewing subdivision blueprints, allowing planners more time for long-range work that helps determine whether a city grows well or becomes a sprawling target for ridicule.
Several planners say the construction slowdown presents a perfect time to get ready for the rebound. But fewer planners are left with each round of layoffs."
Cities like Modesto, Oakdale and Turlock have eliminate planning positions to help save money. Those layoffs have reduced people power and pushed back some planning projects.
FULL STORY: Can San Joaquin valley cities afford not to plan?
Amtrak Expanding Service in California’s Central Valley
Amtrak is planning a major expansion to the passenger rail lines connecting the Central Valley and the Bay Area.
Planners be Nimble, Planners be Quick
Planning should be methodical and responsive to community needs, but not to the point of inefficiency. Too much planning can be just as harmful as too little.
Car Sharing Co-op Boosts Mobility in California’s Central Valley
A nonprofit electric car sharing program offers hourly or daily rentals recently expanded to San Joaquin County.
Seattle Legalizes Co-Living
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NYC Officials Announce Broadway Pedestrianization Project
Two blocks of the marquee street will become mostly car-free public spaces.
The City of Broken Sidewalks
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Why Some Affordable Housing Managers Are Running Education Programs
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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.
Planning for Universal Design
Learn the tools for implementing Universal Design in planning regulations.
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American Planning Association, Sustainable Communities Division
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