The government's plans to move Ground Zero forward are a big step back in time, writes Peter Slatin.
"Last week, governors George Pataki and Jon Corzine of New York and New Jersey and Mayor Michael Bloomberg of New York City emerged into view as the Unified Front for the Liberation of Ground Zero. Presenting two "very reasonable offers" (as described in an editorial in Saturday's New York Times to Larry Silverstein, they made it appear as if the imminent redevelopment of the World Trade Center was a fait accompli, brought about by their persevering vision and sacrifice.
...Along with its general sour taste, there are many things to dislike about this latest version of the Ground Zero plan. Two elements stand particularly large. The first, and the closer it comes to reality the more it bears repeating, is Freedom Tower itself. If all goes as currently set forth, construction will begin in earnest on this building within a month. When completed, it will rise as a stark counterpoint to the new 7 World Trade Center, which is arguably architect David M. Childs' finest building."
FULL STORY: Freedom Less Than Zero

Americans May Be Stuck — But Why?
Americans are moving a lot less than they once did, and that is a problem. While Yoni Applebaum, in his highly-publicized article Stuck, gets the reasons badly wrong, it's still important to ask: why are we moving so much less than before?

Using Old Oil and Gas Wells for Green Energy Storage
Penn State researchers have found that repurposing abandoned oil and gas wells for geothermal-assisted compressed-air energy storage can boost efficiency, reduce environmental risks, and support clean energy and job transitions.

Placekeeping: Setting a New Precedent for City Planners
How a preservation-based approach to redevelopment and urban design can prevent displacement and honor legacy communities.

San Francisco’s Muni Ridership Grew in 2024
The system saw its highest ridership since before the Covid-19 pandemic, but faces a severe budget shortage in the coming year.

Colorado Lawmakers Move to Protect BRT Funding
In the face of potential federal funding cuts, CDOT leaders reasserted their commitment to planned bus rapid transit projects.

Safe Streets Funding in Jeopardy
The Trump administration is specifically targeting bike infrastructure and other road safety projects in its funding cuts.
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