Offbeat lawmaker presses Congress to get in step on quality of life.
"With patience and strategic precision, Oregon's idealistic CongressmanEarl Blumenauer is building the national Smart Growth movement's political foundation in Congress. In this new piece from the Elm Street WritersGroup, Keith Schneider describes how as the founder and co-chairman ofthe congressional Livable Communities Task Force Mr. Blumenauer promotes newfederal policies to alter the tax code, conserve farmland and openspace, establish more affordable housing, invest in cities, and provide federalsupport for better state and local planning. Mr. Blumenauer also hasproved influential in transportation policy and in electing Smart Growthlawmakers to Congress."
Thanks to Keith Schneider
FULL STORY: At the Head of the Smart Growth Pack: Earl Blumenauer

Florida Considers Legalizing ADUs
Current state law allows — but doesn’t require — cities to permit accessory dwelling units in single-family residential neighborhoods.

San Diego to Rescind Multi-Unit ADU Rule
The city wants to close a loophole that allowed developers to build apartment buildings on single-family lots as ADUs.

HUD Announces Plan to Build Housing on Public Lands
The agency will identify federally owned parcels appropriate for housing development and streamline the regulatory process to lease or transfer land to housing authorities and nonprofit developers.

Surf’s Upcycling: Hawai‘i’s Latest Green Building Material is Recycled Surf Boards
“Surf Blocks” are fire-resistant, termite-proof, and close the loop on mountains of waste from the state’s beloved sport.

Building Age-Friendly Homes
Designing for the unique needs of elderly people can help them maintain social connections and mental acuity.

Nightlife and the 15-Minute City
Plans for compact, walkable cities often don’t address nighttime concerns like transportation and lighting, which can make neighborhoods more vibrant and safe around the clock.
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