A long-standing policy allows parking in front of churches and synagogues but leaves cars blocking bike lanes, and cyclists want the practice to end.
"On streets near 74 houses of worship in Center City, the faithful are granted relaxed parking enforcement that allows them to put their cars in places that are convenient for services," writes Jason Laughlin. The Philadelphia parking policy has been in place for 20 years, but cyclists say the vehicles block bike lanes and pose a danger.
People visiting from outside the area argue they have few options for parking during services and special events. The issue also reflects the increased density and growth in downtown Philadelphia, where street space is in higher demand.
A compromise has yet to be reached, but bike advocates say any future agreements should balance the needs of both worshippers and cyclists. They have suggested that drivers use paid parking lots in the vicinity, many of which are largely empty on the weekends, and that the city move cars away from streets with bike lanes.
FULL STORY: Philly blesses worshipers with free parking, eliciting cyclists’ Old Testament wrath
A Troubling Trend of Backlash to Bike Lanes
Some cities are going so far as to rip out protected bike infrastructure that took years of advocacy to build.
Philly Council Wants to Crack Down on Bike Lane Parking
The city council passed a bill that would raise penalties and eliminate a grace period for drivers who stop in bike lanes.
Philadelphia Could Start Citing Drivers for Blocking Bike Lanes
City officials will consider several road safety bills that include higher penalties for stopping in bike lanes and an assessment of the city’s Vision Zero funding.
Alabama: Trump Terminates Settlements for Black Communities Harmed By Raw Sewage
Trump deemed the landmark civil rights agreement “illegal DEI and environmental justice policy.”
Planetizen Federal Action Tracker
A weekly monitor of how Trump’s orders and actions are impacting planners and planning in America.
Why Should We Subsidize Public Transportation?
Many public transit agencies face financial stress due to rising costs, declining fare revenue, and declining subsidies. Transit advocates must provide a strong business case for increasing public transit funding.
Understanding Road Diets
An explainer from Momentum highlights the advantages of reducing vehicle lanes in favor of more bike, transit, and pedestrian infrastructure.
New California Law Regulates Warehouse Pollution
A new law tightens building and emissions regulations for large distribution warehouses to mitigate air pollution and traffic in surrounding communities.
Phoenix Announces Opening Date for Light Rail Extension
The South Central extension will connect South Phoenix to downtown and other major hubs starting on June 7.
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.
Caltrans
Smith Gee Studio
Institute for Housing and Urban Development Studies (IHS)
City of Grandview
Harvard GSD Executive Education
Toledo-Lucas County Plan Commissions
Salt Lake City
NYU Wagner Graduate School of Public Service