Urban Development

For the Birds: Why Designing for Birds is Good for Everyone
A new book spotlights how bird-friendly design makes for healthier and more pleasant cities for all species.

Opinion: To Reduce Emissions, Listen to Those Who Don't Drive
An initiative to promote pedestrian-oriented infrastructure investments in Washington state highlights the lessons that policymakers can learn from people who rely on walking and public transit.

Seattle Limits Natural Gas in New Construction
More cities are banning the use of natural gas in new buildings. Seattle is the latest example.

Context for Sacramento's Decision to End Single-Family Zoning
In January, the Sacramento City Council took first steps toward ending single-family zoning citywide. The decision has provoked controversy that is influencing the next steps in the process.

Reimagining the Urban Freeway
With the new administration placing racial justice and equity at the forefront of transportation policy, will America finally reckon with the legacy of its freeways?

Pittsburgh Revitalization Plans Stuck on Blight
The Pittsburgh Post-Gazette recently published an investigation of the city's efforts to buy and rehabilitate vacant properties in the troubled neighborhood of Homewood.

New Orleans Facing ADA Lawsuit for State of Sidewalks and Lack of Curb Cuts
The city of New Orleans' compliance with Americans With Disabilities Act compliance is too little, too late, according to the plaintiffs in a new lawsuit.

Three Years of Inclusionary Zoning Nets More Affordable Housing, Multi-Family Development in Atlanta
The city of Atlanta has released an analysis of the first three years of an Inclusionary Zoning policy for neighborhoods around the Beltline.

Biden Administration Recognizes the Legacy of Housing Discrimination
In a memorandum, the President acknowledged the federal government's role in patterns of segregation and disinvestment that continue to affect communities of color across the country.

Stadiums, Space, and the City
Stadium footprints are enormous. It's time to get smarter about how they are used.

Opinion: It's the Perfect Time for More Trains in Maine
A more concerted effort could bring together the state's recent plans and federal infrastructure investment to link the region and reduce greenhouse gas emissions.

A Regional Vision for Virginia, Maryland, D.C. Rail
Expanding rail service to more communities in Maryland and D.C. could enhance the benefits of Virginia's recent investments in intercity rail.

Private Sector Coalition Urges California to Invest in Affordable Housing
A new plan calls for increased funding for housing and supportive services to relieve the state's housing crisis and end homelessness.

I-5 Study Shows Benefits of Capping Urban Freeways
Putting a lid on the interstate through downtown Seattle could create new space for parks and housing, reduce pollution, and reconnect the disrupted street grid.

Austin Reallocates Police Funding to Homeless Housing and Services
The city is using the redistributed money to purchase hotels for permanent housing and provide supportive services.

A Year of Cycling Deaths on American Roads
Arterial roads and poorly designed intersections pose significant threats to cyclist and pedestrian safety.

Double-Digit Housing Price Increases Tied to Supply Imbalance in Denver
Expensive homes dominated the metro Denver real estate market in 2020.

The Pandemic Revealed Public Space as 'Essential Infrastructure'
COVID-19 restrictions have highlighted the importance of abundant, multi-use open spaces accessible to all.

Pop Quiz: What Kind of Post-2020 City-Maker Are You?
The State of Place blog is offering a pop quiz designed to help you diagnose the kind of post-2020 city-maker you are.

Housing and Land Use on Washington's Legislative Agenda
The Washington State legislature will consider a number of bills this session that would alter planning and development in a state grappling with population growth and rising housing costs.
Pagination
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
City of Charlotte
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)