WSJ columnist Thomas Bray questions whether federal standards on local zoning boards is such a good idea.
"The Community Character Act would intrude the federal government deeply into the zoning process, one of local government's most important prerogatives. A federal grant program would pay communities 90% of the cost of updating local zoning regulations in order to "improve environmental policy," "promote social equity" and avert "loss of community character"... might not the market forces and local democracy, if left to themselves, more effectively produce some true character on the American urban and exurban scene?.. But the mere existence of a "Community Character Act" tells you that the smart-growthers are making serious inroads--and aren't likely to go away." Editor's note: The Wall Street Journal requires registration and subscription to read articles online.
Thanks to Chris Steins
FULL STORY: 'Character' Development?

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

Chicago’s Ghost Rails
Just beneath the surface of the modern city lie the remnants of its expansive early 20th-century streetcar system.

Amtrak Cutting Jobs, Funding to High-Speed Rail
The agency plans to cut 10 percent of its workforce and has confirmed it will not fund new high-speed rail projects.

Ohio Forces Data Centers to Prepay for Power
Utilities are calling on states to hold data center operators responsible for new energy demands to prevent leaving consumers on the hook for their bills.

MARTA CEO Steps Down Amid Citizenship Concerns
MARTA’s board announced Thursday that its chief, who is from Canada, is resigning due to questions about his immigration status.

Silicon Valley ‘Bike Superhighway’ Awarded $14M State Grant
A Caltrans grant brings the 10-mile Central Bikeway project connecting Santa Clara and East San Jose closer to fruition.
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.
Caltrans
City of Fort Worth
Mpact (founded as Rail~Volution)
City of Camden Redevelopment Agency
City of Astoria
City of Portland
City of Laramie