The plan seeks to expand the city's mixed use development and improve transit options. An alternative version of the plan, recommended by the City Plan Commission, was voted down as the city council opted for the original, slightly amended plan.
The comprehensive plan known as ForwardDallas! was approved by the Dallas City Council last week, with only two dissenting votes. Urban planner John Fregonese's plan had been in the works for more than 18 months, and while many in the city's government see it as a positive step, some feel there hasn't been enough public input.
" 'Dallas is the ninth-largest city in the nation, and we've only developed half of it,' council member Bill Blaydes said. The plan as passed, especially given its language on mass transit and southern-sector development, 'is a map by which the city can move forward.' "
"During a public hearing Wednesday prior to the vote, dozens of Dallas residents argued for and against the city staff's recommendation to the council."
"Cay Kolb, who supported the plan commission's amended version, wrote the council that the Forward Dallas planning process was 'fraudulent' and 'underhanded,' as 'public input has been suppressed; the staff has funneled a foregone conclusion upon which they are asking you to vote today.' "
FULL STORY: Forward Dallas proposal approved: Council backs city staff's land-use plan, rejects panel's version
Manufactured Crisis: Losing the Nation’s Largest Source of Unsubsidized Affordable Housing
Manufactured housing communities have long been an affordable housing option for millions of people living in the U.S., but that affordability is disappearing rapidly. How did we get here?
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.
Greening Oakland’s School Grounds
With help from community partners like the Trust for Public Land, Oakland Unified School District is turning barren, asphalt-covered schoolyards into vibrant, green spaces that support outdoor learning, play, and student well-being.
California Governor Suspends CEQA Reviews for Utilities in Fire Areas
Utility restoration efforts in areas affected by the January wildfires in Los Angeles will be exempt from environmental regulations to speed up the rebuilding of essential infrastructure.
Native American Communities Prepare to Lead on Environmental Stewardship
In the face of federal threats to public lands and conservation efforts, indigenous groups continue to model nature-centered conservation efforts.
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.
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Learn the tools for implementing Universal Design in planning regulations.
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