Madrid, already famous for deciding to impose stringent limitations on driving, has a plan to blanket the city in green to increase its resilience to the effects of climate change.
"In Madrid, pretty much every unused space will soon be covered in plants," according to an article by Adele Peters.
The details of a wide-ranging and ambitious plan:
The city is spending millions to expand existing parks, and as many roofs and walls will be covered with greenery as possible. Twenty-two vacant lots will be turned into urban gardens. Paved squares will become parks that can suck up rainfall. Near the river that runs through the middle of the city—where a major highway was torn down in 2003—the city is spending over $4.3 million to finish filling in the banks with trees.
Cars will also no longer be welcome on some of the center city's streets, allowing planned space for linear parks as well.
The plan addresses one of the key buzzword surrounding planning and cities in recent years: resilience. Already, Madrid has felt the heat of increasing temperatures and decreasing rainfall. Peters explains in more detail how each of these landscaping projects can improve quality of life as the city faces the new threats brought about by climate change.
FULL STORY: Madrid Is Covering Itself In Plants To Help Fight Rising Temperatures
Seattle Legalizes Co-Living
A new state law requires all Washington cities to allow co-living facilities in areas zoned for multifamily housing.
NYC Officials Announce Broadway Pedestrianization Project
Two blocks of the marquee street will become mostly car-free public spaces.
Denver's New High-Rise Integrates Vertical Canyon in Architectural Design
Unlike other new builds in Denver, Colorado, a new high-rise reveals a unique “sculptural canyon” running vertically through the facade to foster a sense of community and connection to nature.
Global Report Shows Urban Forests Failing to Meet Vital Standards
The study reveals significant gaps in urban forestry, emphasizing the urgent need for reforms, innovative planting solutions, and expanded tree canopy to combat climate change and improve urban health.
Freedom to Move: Investing in Transportation Choices for a Clean, Prosperous, and Just Future
This Union of Concerned Scientists study examines why and how to improve resource-efficient travel options to achieve diverse goals. It estimates that more efficient transport could save up to $201 billion in energy and $128 billion in health costs.
Opinion: Federal Government Must Continue Supporting Rural Housing Program
The incoming Congress will have a say in bolstering — or harming — the only federal housing program focused on affordable housing in rural areas.
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.
Village of Glen Ellyn
American Planning Association, Sustainable Communities Division
HUDs Office of Policy Development and Research
HUDs Office of Policy Development and Research
City of Cambridge, Maryland
Newport County Development Council: Connect Greater Newport
Rockdale County Board of Commissioners