The Commercial District Advisor and LISC have selected five businesses as "The Best Chains on Main", recognizing their commitment to economic revitalization and dedication to improving their communities.
Pamela's P&G Diner of Pittsburgh takes second place:
"Pamela's P&G Diner is recognized for their 'Strip District' location, a historically gritty, industrial neighborhood just northeast of downtown Pittsburgh. Pamela's P&G Diner is an anchor in the district, attracting visitors from the entire region and drawing foot traffic that invariably helps other local businesses. According to nominee Neighbors in the Strip, a local community group leading commercial revitalization efforts, Pamela's also takes the lead in donating to worthy causes at its Strip District location. They consistently supports community efforts by sponsoring block parties, providing breakfast for more than 35 photographers during the organization's annual photo walk and photography contest, and donating to other local causes."
FULL STORY: AND THE WINNERS OF THE BEST CHAIN ON MAIN ARE....
Resurrecting the Classic American Main Street
In an interview, urbanism scholar Emily Talen discusses what it would take to restore "main street principles" to American towns and cities. Understandably, small retailers play a big role.
Chain Drugstores Are Closing, But Not Because of Shoplifting
Massive chain drug stores have become integral members of the urban fabric, for better or worse, but widespread store closures and security practices have come to symbolize urban decline. The dynamic must be monitored.
Chain Retail Slow to Recover From Pandemic in New York City
2020 was a rough year for retail chains in New York City, making even a slow year, like 2021, look like a recovery.
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
Mpact (founded as Rail~Volution)
City of Camden Redevelopment Agency
City of Astoria
City of Portland
City of Laramie