In Memoriam: Branden Klayko, 'Broken Sidewalk' Blogger

Branden Klayko is a name that will be very familiar to readers of Planetizen, after providing years of essential news coverage, commentary, and analysis as a senior editor at The Architect's Newspaper and the founder of the local blog Broken Sidewalk. Klayko recently passed away after a battle with leukemia at the age of 33. We at Planetizen have repeatedly linked to Klayko's work over the years, and we are deeply grateful for his contributions to the urbanism and planning discussion.

The Architect's Newspaper published a tribute to Klayko, noting his efforts in launching the publications website, and his broad interests in the subjects of urbanism, both in New York City and his hometown of Louisville Kentucky.

Leo Weekly published a tribute, calling Klayko's passing a "profound loss for the city." That tribute includes contributions from several high profile residents of Louisville, including a statement from Mayor Greg Fischer, who says that Klayko, "challenged us to make the city better."

James Bruggers penned an obituary for the Courier-Journal, summing up Klayko's approach to the Broken Sidewalk blog, and its mixture of affectionate support and constructive criticism.

Angie Schmitt also offers a tribute, noting Klayko's valuable contributions as part of the Streetsblog Network.

As noted by a tweet from Mike Lydon, a fundraising effort is gathering donations for a memorial bench or tree to be planted through Olmstead Parks in honor of Klayko's love for Louisville.