In downtown Ann Arbor, dense high rise development has traditionally been thought of negatively. However, a recent shift in political will has the City approving projects that will add greater density and housing to its commercial core.
"Local developer Fred Beal sat near the back of the council chamber Tuesday night while the Ann Arbor City Council moved forward toward approving three downtown residential projects -- two involving nine-story buildings and the third a 12-story and a 14-story tower connected by a four-story base.
Beal, a member of the Downtown Development Authority's board, said he remembers just a few years ago he attended a committee meeting of the city's Planning Commission when a four-story limit for new buildings was discussed.
When was the last time he was at a City Council meeting when that kind of development wasn't disputed?
He smiled. 'Never.'"
FULL STORY: Council Ok's Major Projects
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.
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.
Heyer Gruel & Associates PA
Ada County Highway District
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