Michael Dudley

<p>Sluggish government response and a reliance on market forces have failed to resolve the housing crisis faced by thousands of Gulf coast residents, argues a recent editorial.</p>

<p>New figures show a dramatic downturn in two of Canada's hottest real estate markets -- Calgary and Vancouver -- though the change appears to be a reaction on the part of consumers to unrealistically rapid price increases.</p>

<p>In an unprecedented move, the Province of Alberta's energy regulator has issued a warning that time is running out to put in place the infrastructure -- including roads, schools and health care -- needed to keep pace with oil sands development.</p>

<p>Despite its booming growth and the recent announcement of a world-class office tower, downtown Calgary is suffering from a lack of human-scale planning, writes Lisa Rochon.</p>

<p>Architects and other observers are still debating whether or not the built environment can contribute to social decay and urban unrest.</p>