Study suggests that light-colored roofs may reduce regional rainfall.
In recent years, many cities have explored light-colored roofs -- so-called "cool roofs" -- as a way to deal with the heat-producing impacts of dark and impermeable urban surfaces. A new study by Arizona State University researchers suggests that although light roofs reduce urban temperatures, they may have the unexpected result of altering rainfall patterns by reducing evapotranspiration rates of urban vegetation.
Researcher Matei Georgescu, whose research was based on computer modeling of Arizona's "Sun Corridor" of Phoenix, Tucson, Prescott, and Nogales, emphasizes that the study is not a condemnation of cool roofs.
"Does that suggest that cool roofs are a negative? I think what this leads to is future research to see how they should place cool roofs to minimize impacts," Georgescu said. "Certain regions might be more appropriate for cool roofs than others."
Thanks to Rachel Proctor May
FULL STORY: Cool roofs may have side effects on regional rainfall

Rethinking Redlining
For decades we have blamed 100-year-old maps for the patterns of spatial racial inequity that persist in American cities today. An esteemed researcher says: we’ve got it all wrong.

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

Walmart Announces Nationwide EV Charging Network
The company plans to install electric car chargers at most of its stores by 2030.

Seattle’s Pike Place Market Leans Into Pedestrian Infrastructure
After decades of debate, the market is testing a car ban in one of its busiest areas and adding walking links to the surrounding neighborhood.

The World’s Longest Light Rail Line is in… Los Angeles?
In a city not known for its public transit, the 48.5-mile A Line is the longest of its kind on the planet.

Quantifying Social Infrastructure
New developments have clear rules for ensuring surrounding roads, water, and sewers can handle new users. Why not do the same for community amenities?
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
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