Industrial building developers, who had previously decried the price tag of green roofs now standard to many buildings in Toronto, may get the OK to construct an alternative, reflective roof instead.
Natalie Alcoba reports:
"The green roof bylaw applies to new high-rise condos and office buildings with floor surface greater than 2,000 square metres, to mid-rise buildings that are higher than eight storeys, industrial plants, schools and non-profit housing.
Advocates contend that green roofs reduce the 'urban heat island,' but opponents from the industrial sector warn the cost of installing such roofs on their massive plants could drive companies out of Toronto. New industrial buildings are exempt until April 30.
On Tuesday, the Toronto Catholic District School Board also raised money as an issue as it sought an exemption from the bylaw and the cash in lieu contribution it has to pay instead."
FULL STORY: City may ease green roof rules on new buildings

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

San Francisco's School District Spent $105M To Build Affordable Housing for Teachers — And That's Just the Beginning
SFUSD joins a growing list of school districts using their land holdings to address housing affordability challenges faced by their own employees.

The Tiny, Adorable $7,000 Car Turning Japan Onto EVs
The single seat Mibot charges from a regular plug as quickly as an iPad, and is about half the price of an average EV.

Austin's First Single Stair Apartment Building is Officially Underway
Eliminating the requirement for two staircases in multi-story residential buildings lets developers use smaller lots and more flexible designs to create denser housing.

Atlanta Bus System Redesign Will Nearly Triple Access
MARTA's Next Gen Bus Network will retool over 100 bus routes, expand frequent service.

Toronto Condo Sales Drop 75%
In two of Canada’s most expensive cities, more condos were built than ever — and sales are plummeting.
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