In the Stapleton neighborhood of Denver, developer Forest City has recognized the growing interest in urban gardening by partnering with The Urban Farm Company to offer ready-made raised-bed gardens to homebuyers.
"Conservatory Green, which developer Forest City Stapleton is advertising as 'urban' and 'garden-ready,' is embracing the idea that individuals can become farmers, or at least gardeners, even in tight urban areas," reports Matthew Patane. "Forest City Stapleton recently entered into an agreement with The Urban Farm Company of Colorado to offer homebuyers raised-bed gardens for their front yards or backyards."
"These huge corporate home builders, they have begun to realize that this is what people want," said Bryant Mason, the founder of Urban Farm.
"Tim Aston, Colorado State University extension director in Arapahoe County, said planned housing developments, such as Stapleton, are taking a different approach to neighborhoods," adds Patane. "Developers are 'emphasizing the communal aspect more,' instead of simply maximizing housing space."
"It's a big perk now for new development to have (urban gardens), along with a pool or a dog park option, even if it's just a community garden," Aston said.
FULL STORY: Stapleton development partners with urban garden company

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.

From Planning to Action: How LA County Is Rethinking Climate Resilience
Chief Sustainability Officer Rita Kampalath outlines the County’s shift from planning to implementation in its climate resilience efforts, emphasizing cross-departmental coordination, updated recovery strategies, and the need for flexible funding.

New Mexico Aging Department Commits to Helping Seniors Age ‘In Place’ and ‘Autonomously’ in New Draft Plan
As New Mexico’s population of seniors continues to grow, the state’s aging department is proposing expanded initiatives to help seniors maintain their autonomy while also supporting family caregivers.

USDOT Waters Down Self-Driving Car Regulations
The agency is reducing reporting requirements for autonomous vehicles and cars with self-driving features, prompting concern among safety advocates who say transparency is essential to the safe deployment of AV technology.
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