Land-use expert Randall Arendt says while many cities have comprehensive plans that aim for conservation, they have zoning laws that promote development and sprawl.
"'Most zoning ordinances are written to do nothing but promote development. But those ordinances can be designed and written with conservation in mind,' said Randall Arendt, a senior conservation adviser for the Natural Lands Trust and an expert on designing subdivisions that minimize environmental damage... Arendt said he is often hired as a consultant by municipalities and is often bewildered when he contrasts the community's long-range comprehensive plan to its zoning laws that developers use as a guide in building. "
Thanks to Abhijeet Chavan
FULL STORY: Land-use expert tells officials zoning laws can promote conservation

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

USGS Water Science Centers Targeted for Closure
If their work is suspended, states could lose a valuable resource for monitoring, understanding, and managing water resources.

San Diego Adopts First Mobility Master Plan
The plan provides a comprehensive framework for making San Diego’s transportation network more multimodal, accessible, and sustainable.

Judge Halts New Conditions for HUD, Transportation Grants
The Trump administration attempted to impose new restrictions on federal grants aimed at eliminating DEI programs and aligning with the administration’s immigration policy.

States File Lawsuit Over EV Charging Funds
A coalition of states sued the Trump administration over its suspension of funding for the National Electric Vehicle Infrastructure program.

Portland Council Tentatively Approves Sidewalk Repair Plan
The proposal would address sidewalk needs in Portland’s District 1 and District 4.
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.
City of Moorpark
City of Tustin
Tyler Technologies
City of Camden Redevelopment Agency
City of Astoria
Transportation Research & Education Center (TREC) at Portland State University
Regional Transportation Commission of Southern Nevada
Toledo-Lucas County Plan Commissions