New rankings from the 2011 American Community Survey released Thursday show that the residents of the D.C. area have benefited from an economy built on "the federal government, its legions of contractors and a flourishing high-tech sector."
While communities across America have suffered through high unemployment, public sector cuts from dwindling revenues, and foreclosures resulting from the Great Recession, the Washington D.C. metropolitan area has been getting increasingly affluent. New census numbers show that the D.C. suburbs now include 7 of the 10 most affluent counties in the country, with Loudoun County and its median household income of $119,134 topping the list, report Carol Morello and Ted Mellnik.
"The rankings in the 2011 American Community Survey released Thursday
expand Washington's dominance among high-income households, reflecting a
regional economy that was largely cushioned as the recession yanked
down income levels elsewhere. Household incomes rose in most counties
around Washington last year, even as they continued to sink around the country."
Hunterdon and Somerset Counties in New Jersey, and Douglas County in Colorado, were the non-Washington area counties to make the top 10.
FULL STORY: Seven of nation’s 10 most affluent counties are in Washington region
Causes and Effects of Widespread Data Center Development
While it’s unlikely to expect local and state governments to insist that data center developments locate somewhere else, specific policy steps can ensure a more positive impact for communities.
Washington Commanders Looking to the Periphery for a New Place to Play
The suburbanization of the National Football League continues.
Legal Dispute Grounds Last Remaining Potomac River Ferry Service
Historic White's Ferry, which has crossed the Potomac River between Virginia and Maryland since the late 18th century, has announced that it will cease operations.
Trump Administration Could Effectively End Housing Voucher Program
Federal officials are eyeing major cuts to the Section 8 program that helps millions of low-income households pay rent.
Planetizen Federal Action Tracker
A weekly monitor of how Trump’s orders and actions are impacting planners and planning in America.
Ken Jennings Launches Transit Web Series
The Jeopardy champ wants you to ride public transit.
California Invests Additional $5M in Electric School Buses
The state wants to electrify all of its school bus fleets by 2035.
Austin Launches $2M Homelessness Prevention Fund
A new grant program from the city’s Homeless Strategy Office will fund rental assistance and supportive services.
Alabama School Forestry Initiative Brings Trees to Schoolyards
Trees can improve physical and mental health for students and commnity members.
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.
Ada County Highway District
Clanton & Associates, Inc.
Jessamine County Fiscal Court
Institute for Housing and Urban Development Studies (IHS)
City of Grandview
Harvard GSD Executive Education
Toledo-Lucas County Plan Commissions
Salt Lake City
NYU Wagner Graduate School of Public Service