Seattle is considering a new policy that will allow companies to place large signs atop buildings downtown. It's part of an effort to lure companies downtown, but many locals are outraged.
Opponents point to Pittsburgh and Detroit as examples of cities that allow this type of signage, and suggest that those two cities might not be the best models to follow.
"Mr. GERRITSON: One of the few ways that we can show that we're a business-friendly community is by allowing companies that operate here like many other cities do to put up signs advertising their presence.
PAILTHORP: Russell Investments says putting up its sign would help it become a catalyst for an expanded financial sector. And it would show how competitive Seattle can be as it attempts to win new businesses. The Chamber's Senior Vice President George Allen says they've worked with the city council to craft legislation that would preserve the beauty of the skyline.
Mr. GEORGE ALLEN (Senior Vice President, Greater Seattle Chamber of Commerce): The lighting cannot be garish. Signs cannot spin. They cannot flash. They cannot be sort of video-oriented. They have to be very static, very controlled, and they have to be very tastefully done. "
FULL STORY: Signless In Seattle? Urban Designers Hope So

Maui's Vacation Rental Debate Turns Ugly
Verbal attacks, misinformation campaigns and fistfights plague a high-stakes debate to convert thousands of vacation rentals into long-term housing.

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

In Urban Planning, AI Prompting Could be the New Design Thinking
Creativity has long been key to great urban design. What if we see AI as our new creative partner?

King County Supportive Housing Program Offers Hope for Unhoused Residents
The county is taking a ‘Housing First’ approach that prioritizes getting people into housing, then offering wraparound supportive services.

Researchers Use AI to Get Clearer Picture of US Housing
Analysts are using artificial intelligence to supercharge their research by allowing them to comb through data faster. Though these AI tools can be error prone, they save time and housing researchers are optimistic about the future.

Making Shared Micromobility More Inclusive
Cities and shared mobility system operators can do more to include people with disabilities in planning and operations, per a new report.
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.
planning NEXT
Appalachian Highlands Housing Partners
Gallatin County Department of Planning & Community Development
Mpact (founded as Rail~Volution)
City of Camden Redevelopment Agency
City of Astoria
City of Portland
City of Laramie