Providence, Rhode Island is one of many cities to get mall-like retail center built with walkability in mind and set around a Plaza.

More walkable malls are having a moment. "Communities across the country are embracing what's been called the Santana Row effect, a nationwide planning trend that seeks to deconstruct the great American enclosed mall and reduce the profile of the cars that come with it," Angela Ruggiero writes in The Providence Journal. Cities from San Jose to Providence are experimenting with this kind of development. "This urbanist movement was a strong reaction against the suburban model that America built some 50 years ago, a very car-dominated culture, Calott said. The city center has now become a mainstream real estate development," Ruggiero reports.
In cities fighting the image of being too car-bound, and trying to build retail, this style has proven popular. Jeff Dodd of Sunset Development, which worked on the development in Providence told Ruggiero, "Although some may say it's a glorified mall without a roof, the openness of the structure makes it feel as though there are no walls."
FULL STORY: Across the U.S., malls are moving outdoors as pedestrian-friendly 'city centers'

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.
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