U.S. cities leave a lot to be desired for raising a family. However, is it really a worthwhile goal to make cities family friendly? Marin Gertler, a San Diego architect ponders the question after a recent visit to New York City.

On a recent trip with his family—kids included—San Diego Gensler architect Marin Gertler enjoyed the trip immensely. In reflecting on the trip however, he noticed few children, and few children's amenities.
He pondered, if NYC, our most vibrant city and home of the "ballet of the sidewalk"—of which children were a significant factor—can't get it right, is there hope for other U.S. cities? Is it even a worthwhile goal to make cities family friendly? In NYC, he noticed, among other things:
The sheer density was another expected challenge, but the physical distance between the various open spaces, parks and pedestrian plazas really was magnified as a family. There is no “green necklace” to move from mid-town to downtown, the Highline does a good job for a short time on the west side but that’s about it.
In reflecting on San Diego, he writes:
We hope that San Diego can learn from the mistake of others and borrow innovation from the best with the goal of being leaders in this aspect. San Diego city is young and there is still time to shape it, but we need to move fast.
For more of his observations regarding New York City, please read the main article.
FULL STORY: Should we plan for families in the ‘new’ city?

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