The Woodlands was conceived four decades ago as a new style of suburb, mixing the urban and pastoral. And by all accounts it has remained a "special place" as it has matured. But as it nears full build-out, some wonder if its bubble might soon burst.
"Since its early days, The Woodlands has been woodlands, with homes nestled between countless trees and an overall setting that looks more like a park than a subdivision," observes Mike Tolson. "But today, well into its fifth decade, it is more: urban life without the grit, funkiness, aggravation and fear."
"In time, residents of The Woodlands might need for their hometown to become a full-fledged city with ordinance-making powers along with its own public safety and public works departments. For the time being, surveys say they are satisfied with the current, unique 'township' form of government, which is a hybrid between a private corporation and elected municipal government. But for how long?"
FULL STORY: The Woodlands' new urban face challenges suburban feel
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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.
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Learn the tools for implementing Universal Design in planning regulations.
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Central Transportation Planning Staff/Boston Region MPO
Heyer Gruel & Associates PA
Institute for Housing and Urban Development Studies (IHS)
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Harvard GSD Executive Education
Regional Transportation Commission of Southern Nevada
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