The Northern Avenue Bridge in Boston—a 100-year-old swing bridge used by pedestrians and cyclists—was closed abruptly due to structural defects.
Boston "has closed the Old Northern Avenue Bridge, citing 'deterioration beyond repair' to the floor beams," reports Nicole Duncga. "The city offered no clear plans for the future of the 640-foot steel and concrete span across the Fort Point channel, raising fears that it may not be returned to service." Duncga also adds that it's the second bridge in Boston to close down abruptly since October.
"For years, the Old Northern Avenue Bridge teetered on the brink of demolition as city officials pointed out drawbacks in continuing to maintain it. But preservationists say the bridge, constructed in 1908, is one of the state’s few 'swing' bridges, spans that rotate horizontally when water traffic needs to pass."
Shirley Leung has also written a column that editorializes the political context about the bridge's history, as well as its potential future.
FULL STORY: City closes Northern Avenue Bridge in South Boston
New North Avenue Bridge in Boston Would Ban Cars
The "people first" design favored by the city of Boston would not allow for cars on the planned North Avenue Bridge replacement.
Boston Bus Signal Priority Project Yields Faster Travel Times
The city now plans to expand a year-long pilot project that reduced the time buses waited at traffic signals.
Boston Rail Network Sees Significant Increases in Speed After Eliminating ‘Slow Zones’
A year-long project that upgraded rail infrastructure and equipment has resulted in faster trips on all rail lines.
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.
Canada vs. Kamala: Whose Liberal Housing Platform Comes Out on Top?
As Canada votes for a new Prime Minister, what can America learn from the leading liberal candidate of its neighbor to the north?
Washington State’s Parking Reform Law Could Unlock ‘Countless’ Acres for New Housing
A law that limits how much parking cities can require for residential amd commercial developments could lead to a construction boom.
Wildlife Rebounds After the Eaton Fire
Following the devastation of the Eaton Fire, the return of wildlife and the regrowth of native plants are offering powerful signs of resilience and renewal.
LA to Replace Inglewood Light Rail Project With Bus Shuttles
LA Metro says the change is in response to community engagement and that the new design will be ready before the 2028 Olympic Games.
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.
Central Transportation Planning Staff/Boston Region MPO
Heyer Gruel & Associates PA
Institute for Housing and Urban Development Studies (IHS)
City of Grandview
Harvard GSD Executive Education
Regional Transportation Commission of Southern Nevada
Toledo-Lucas County Plan Commissions