Proposed changes must walk a fine line between economic reality and protectiveness.
"...This balance is about to dissipate. Commentators reactions ranged from praise for the buildings departments work, to a strong stance against any and all compromises-cum-shortcuts... the task force must consider the ramifications of its choices. Its conclusions may affect underwriting standards as well as FAR calculations. Code amendments may also constrain architectural expression. James Howie, a senior associate of Perkins Eastman Architects and Task Force member, argues otherwise, that an architecture of 'safety and assurance' is a creative opportunity. 'All codes are words. Architects have been able to interpret them... with exciting forms and without compromising any of the requirements. Will new requirements add to their vocabulary? I would say yes,' he says."
Thanks to NREI Editor
FULL STORY: High-Rise High Jinks

Maui's Vacation Rental Debate Turns Ugly
Verbal attacks, misinformation campaigns and fistfights plague a high-stakes debate to convert thousands of vacation rentals into long-term housing.

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

San Francisco Suspends Traffic Calming Amidst Record Deaths
Citing “a challenging fiscal landscape,” the city will cease the program on the heels of 42 traffic deaths, including 24 pedestrians.

Defunct Pittsburgh Power Plant to Become Residential Tower
A decommissioned steam heat plant will be redeveloped into almost 100 affordable housing units.

Trump Prompts Restructuring of Transportation Research Board in “Unprecedented Overreach”
The TRB has eliminated more than half of its committees including those focused on climate, equity, and cities.

Amtrak Rolls Out New Orleans to Alabama “Mardi Gras” Train
The new service will operate morning and evening departures between Mobile and New Orleans.
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.
Heyer Gruel & Associates PA
JM Goldson LLC
Custer County Colorado
City of Camden Redevelopment Agency
City of Astoria
Transportation Research & Education Center (TREC) at Portland State University
Jefferson Parish Government
Camden Redevelopment Agency
City of Claremont