After years wasted trying to implement large-scale redevelopment of its formerly industrial waterfront, Buffalo is cleaning up its shores from the ground up, reports Daniel Robison.
Preferring to take an approach they've dubbed "lighter, faster, cheaper," Buffalo is seeking to revitalize its industrial waterfront by increasing public access with incremental improvements and a targeted environmental cleanup.
"If you talk to some of the last few generations," [Jill Jedicka, head of the nonprofit Buffalo Niagara Riverkeeper] says,
"people will tell you, 'I've been hearing the revitalization of
Buffalo's riverfront and waterfront for years; it's never going to
happen.' "
But alas, "[n]ear a new patch of green space
known as Canalside...dog
walkers stroll along a new boardwalk. Teenagers dive to catch Frisbees
on fresh sod. Tourists watch a sunset from kayaks and water taxis," observes Robison.
"Just
a few boards, and some grass and chairs, and look what happens. People
are coming down here," retiree Wayne Minear says. "There's people everywhere. This
would have never happened before."
Thanks to Daniel Lippman
FULL STORY: Buffalo Cleans Up From Dirty Industrial Past

Norman, Oklahoma Eliminates Parking Mandates
The city made a subtle, one-word change that frees up developers to build parking based on actual need and eliminates costly unnecessary parking.

Boston Transit Riders Report Safety Concerns
Almost three-quarters of current and former riders report feeling unsafe while using MBTA services.

Boston to Begin Zoning Code Update, Mayor Announces
It’s been nearly 60 years, but the city of Boston is finally ready to do a comprehensive rewrite of its zoning code.

Proposal Could Mandate Sidewalks as Part of Seattle Complete Streets
Almost a third of the city’s neighborhood streets lack sidewalks.

San Francisco Supervisors Punt Housing Ordinance
After hours of public comment, the zoning reform package aimed at increasing housing production and limiting red tape was delayed for further discussion.

Pittsburgh Launches Adaptive Bike Share Fleet
The new bikes include a recumbent bicycle and a front-loading cargo bike.
City of Stonecrest
City of Grand Junction Police Department
HUD's Office of Policy Development and Research
Washington University
Mpact: Mobility, Community, Possibility
National Capital Planning Commission
City of Culver City
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.