Gavriel Rosenfeld says rushing to reconstruct the World Trade Center towers would be a mistake. He cites historical examples of urban destruction, the importance of ruins, memorials designs, and the need to have authentic reminders of a tragedy.
"Already, there have been calls for the reconstruction of the towers as a sign of American resolve, and that wish to begin the physical recovery is perfectly understandable. But we also have a civic and moral obligation to commemorate the destruction...For while it is understandable, the rush to reconstruction complicates the process of mourning.the disappearance of authentic sites of tragedy makes coping with the past more difficult...I think if the European experience of reconstruction after the Second World War teaches us anything, it is that there is room for preserving the memory of tragedy alongside the pursuit of recovery."
Thanks to Abhijeet Chavan
FULL STORY: A True Memorial Lies in the Ruins

Trump Administration Could Effectively End Housing Voucher Program
Federal officials are eyeing major cuts to the Section 8 program that helps millions of low-income households pay rent.

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

Canada vs. Kamala: Whose Liberal Housing Platform Comes Out on Top?
As Canada votes for a new Prime Minister, what can America learn from the leading liberal candidate of its neighbor to the north?

Washington State’s Parking Reform Law Could Unlock ‘Countless’ Acres for New Housing
A law that limits how much parking cities can require for residential amd commercial developments could lead to a construction boom.

Wildlife Rebounds After the Eaton Fire
Following the devastation of the Eaton Fire, the return of wildlife and the regrowth of native plants are offering powerful signs of resilience and renewal.

LA to Replace Inglewood Light Rail Project With Bus Shuttles
LA Metro says the change is in response to community engagement and that the new design will be ready before the 2028 Olympic Games.
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