Scott Doyon argues that getting the next generation of collaborators involved in community improvement efforts will require more than simply using the tools of social media - it will require connecting with what people are passionate about.
Cities everywhere are looking to engage Generation Y in community planning. Are Facebook ads an effective tool for getting there? Doyon offers up a definite maybe:
"It's misguided to say social media cures everything, it's equally so to claim it cures nothing. The answer, once again, is in the messy middle ground."
"The mistake, especially as it relates to public process, is focusing too much on who you're reaching and not enough on the particular stories that define them. Your job, when reaching out to them, is crafting your story entirely in the context of theirs, with an eye towards clarity and simplicity. Find the connecting points, the shared context, the common values. That's how you compel action."
"It's not just about getting the word out. It's about getting the right word out."
Thanks to Hazel Borys
FULL STORY: Snagging Gen-Y: Do Facebook ads work in public engagement?

Montreal Mall to Become 6,000 Housing Units
Place Versailles will be transformed into a mixed-use complex over the next 25 years.

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

DARTSpace Platform Streamlines Dallas TOD Application Process
The Dallas transit agency hopes a shorter permitting timeline will boost transit-oriented development around rail stations.

Without International Immigrants, the Rural US Population Would Be Falling 58%
Census data shows that population growth in rural areas is due in large part to international migrants.

Dead End: Nine Highways Ready for Retirement
The Freeways Without Futures report describes the nation’s most promising highway removal proposals.

Congressman Proposes Bill to Rename DC Metro “Trump Train”
The Make Autorail Great Again Act would withhold federal funding to the system until the Washington Metropolitan Area Transit Authority (WMATA), rebrands as the Washington Metropolitan Authority for Greater Access (WMAGA).
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 Mt Shasta
City of Camden Redevelopment Agency
City of Astoria
Transportation Research & Education Center (TREC) at Portland State University
City of Camden Redevelopment Agency
Municipality of Princeton (NJ)
Regional Transportation Commission of Southern Nevada