President Obama's multi-billion dollar proposal to help homeowners involves providing them refinanced, government-backed loans. The plan is not without its doubters, however.
Designed to be a helping hand to the middle-class, the proposed plan could help over 3 million homeowners refinance, even if they are underwater. It would cost billions of dollars a year provided by a fee on big banks.
HUD Secretary Shaun Donovan spoke in support of the proposal:
"Sen. Boxer and Sen. Isakson put a bill together to support what we were doing. And we've seen broad support across the political spectrum from economists who say broader refinancing is one of the most important things that we can do, not just to help homeowners -- it's an average of $3,000 a year that they would save -- but also to boost consumer spending."
Jacqueline Hlavenka challenges several aspects of the plan in this piece for GlobeSt.com, "With interest rates near zero, many are concerned that the US Treasury Department's third expansion of its Home Affordable Modification Program could create further stagnation, since many homeowners cannot qualify for loans to begin with."
Thanks to Michael Snidal
FULL STORY: HUD Secretary Donovan: 'We Need to Do More' to Help Homeowners

Amtrak Ramping Up Infrastructure Projects
Thanks to federal funding from the 2021 infrastructure act, the agency plans to triple its investment in infrastructure improvements and new routes in the next two years.

The Unceremonious Death of a Freeway Expansion Project
The end of an Oregon freeway project didn't get much fanfare, but the victory is worth celebrating.

Ending Downtown San Francisco’s ‘Doom Loop’
A new public space project offers an ambitious vision—so why is the city implementing it at such a small scale?

Kaua’i County Uses Long-Range Models to Mandate Resiliency Standards
The county requires builders to assess potential flood risks using models that account for sea level rise projected as far out as 2100.

California Governor Vetoes Autonomous Truck Ban
Gov. Newsom called the new law unnecessary, citing existing efforts by state regulators to develop new rules around autonomous trucking.

Low-Barrier Motel Shelter Is a Success—But Not an Easy One
Many guests at Motels4Now are on their second or third stays—but staff say that's doesn't equal failure, and the numbers bear that out.
HUD's Office of Policy Development and Research
Washington University
Mpact: Mobility, Community, Possibility
Lassen County Planning and Building Services
City of San Carlos
National Capital Planning Commission
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.