Only 10 miles separate New York City and Newark, New Jersey, but the two can seem worlds apart. Damon Rich, who moved from New York in 2008 to lead Newark's planning office, speaks about how his work there has shaped his perception of both cities.
Once a prosperous manufacturing center, in the 20th century Newark was hit hard by the afflictions that devastated cities across the nation, from white flight to corruption and decaying infrastructure. In an in-depth interview, Damon Rich, who served as the city's first Chief Urban Designer, offers his views on Newark's past and present and discusses its complex relationship with its giant neighbor to the east.
FULL STORY: Newark and New York
Gateway Tunnel Project Ready to Move Forward
The project is primarily funded through federal agencies and will improve a key link between New Jersey and New York City.
More Delays, Billions for the Northeast Corridor’s Gateway Program
Considered by some to be the most critical infrastructure project in the country, the Gateway Project is an ongoing example of the extreme costs of bureaucratic and political neglect.
Newark Sues New York City Over Homeless Relocations
The city of Newark is accusing the city of New York of creating the Special One-Time Assistance program to systematical relocate the homeless.
Planetizen Federal Action Tracker
A weekly monitor of how Trump’s orders and actions are impacting planners and planning in America.
Congressman Proposes Bill to Rename DC Metro “Trump Train”
The Make Autorail Great Again Act would withhold federal funding to the system until the Washington Metropolitan Area Transit Authority (WMATA), rebrands as the Washington Metropolitan Authority for Greater Access (WMAGA).
The Simple Legislative Tool Transforming Vacant Downtowns
In California, Michigan and Georgia, an easy win is bringing dollars — and delight — back to city centers.
The Small South Asian Republic Going all in on EVs
Thanks to one simple policy change less than five years ago, 65% of new cars in this Himalayan country are now electric.
DC Backpedals on Bike Lane Protection, Swaps Barriers for Paint
Citing aesthetic concerns, the city is removing the concrete barriers and flexposts that once separated Arizona Avenue cyclists from motor vehicles.
In These Cities, Most New Housing is Under 441 Square Feet
With loosened restrictions on “micro-housing,” tiny units now make up as much as 66% of newly constructed housing.
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.
Smith Gee Studio
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City of Camden Redevelopment Agency
City of Astoria
Transportation Research & Education Center (TREC) at Portland State University
US High Speed Rail Association
City of Camden Redevelopment Agency
Municipality of Princeton (NJ)