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
Read the 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.
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Some experts think the language used to describe a redevelopment project in Detroit might be overly ambitious.
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Planetizen Federal Action Tracker
A weekly monitor of how Trump’s orders and actions are impacting planners and planning in America.
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LA residents may be allowed to paint their own crosswalks
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Dallas moves to overhaul its zoning code
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FREE Course: Walkable City 1: Why Walkability?
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Reinventing Malls: Planning Alchemy—Turning Gray Fields Into Gold
The course focuses on the opportunities and imperatives that shape reinvention of mall sites.
City of Rosemead
Rutgers University, Edward J. Bloustein School of Planning and Public Policy
One Hundred Miles
Hunter College, City University of New York (CUNY)
The Architects Foundation
University of Cincinnati Online
City of Cambridge
Montrose County
The Pocatello Development Authority