Architects and planners hope to add an interesting block of buildings to "boring" Orlando.
Four "ultra-modern" buildings proposed for downtown Orlando received preliminary approval from the city's Development Review Committee. "The $250 million project was designed by Arquitectonica, a Miami firm known for its cutting-edge designs...All of [the complex] would face an open plaza envisioned as a local version of Manhattan's Bryant Park, which is behind the New York Public Library. A large grassy area flanked by a jumbo television screen on one side and a fountain on the other, the Orlando plaza could host picnickers, fashion shows or outdoor movies, developers said. A similar garden area would top the garage. Open space would make up about 2 acres of the 5.6-acre site."
'We intend for this to be the Rockefeller Center of Orlando,' project manager Mark Rieker said."
Thanks to Renae
FULL STORY: Architects propose a slice of Manhattan in Orlando

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.

Ken Jennings Launches Transit Web Series
The Jeopardy champ wants you to ride public transit.

Washington Legislature Passes Rent Increase Cap
A bill that caps rent increases at 7 percent plus inflation is headed to the governor’s desk.

From Planning to Action: How LA County Is Rethinking Climate Resilience
Chief Sustainability Officer Rita Kampalath outlines the County’s shift from planning to implementation in its climate resilience efforts, emphasizing cross-departmental coordination, updated recovery strategies, and the need for flexible funding.

New Mexico Aging Department Commits to Helping Seniors Age ‘In Place’ and ‘Autonomously’ in New Draft Plan
As New Mexico’s population of seniors continues to grow, the state’s aging department is proposing expanded initiatives to help seniors maintain their autonomy while also supporting family caregivers.
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