Howard Blackson looks at new tools for fixing cities, including form-based codes, plans for complexities (neighborhoods, urban patterns, architecture), classification of character, and funding systems.
Blackson decries the current state of planning:
"Let's be honest. Our cities are broke and redevelopment was unpredictable at best - except in causing a lot of angst among the general public. And, despite Einstein's definition of insanity, a majority of our nation's Planning Departments have stubbornly continued to use the same Land Use-based planning tools over and over again, expecting different outcomes."
"It is time to bring out a new set of tools to help our cities grow more strategically in our new economy and re-focus new development to contribute towards a sense-of-place that is socially, culturally and economically valuable."
Thanks to Hazel Borys
FULL STORY: Coding for Character: The Architecture of Community
The Definition of Planning Insanity
The new planning and zoning tools needed to achieve a more sustainable and equitable urban form, according to urban planning consultant Howard Blackson III.
Can Detroit's Urban Revitalization Undo the Mistakes of Urban Renewal?
Some experts think the language used to describe a redevelopment project in Detroit might be overly ambitious.
Revealed: Dan Gilbert's Next Detroit Redevelopment Investment
The neighborhood of Brush Park will be home to the latest big investment by Quicken Loans founder and Detroit patron Dan Gilbert. $70 million will build 337 new housing units on 8.4 acres.
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Planetizen Federal Action Tracker
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Canada vs. Kamala: Whose Liberal Housing Platform Comes Out on Top?
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Paris Voters Approve More Car-Free Streets
Paris Mayor Anne Hidalgo says the city will develop a plan to close 500 streets to car traffic and add new bike and pedestrian infrastructure after a referendum on the proposal passed with 66 percent of the vote.
Making Mobility More Inclusive
A new study highlights the challenges people with disabilities continue to face in navigating urban spaces.
Texas Bills Could Push More People Into Homelessness
A proposal to speed up the eviction process and a bill that would accelerate enforcement of an existing camping ban could make the state’s homelessness crisis worse, advocates say.
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