Critics in New York City cite that community groups and city officials are often swayed to approve projects by unrelated freebies provided by the developer.
Community Benefits Agreements have been hailed by social and environmental justice advocates as powerful tools to ensure responsible development. The agreements, often required with large redevelopment projects that attract public subsidies, usually provide for living wage jobs and affordable housing, along with other concessions.
"Advocates of C.B.A.'s, as they are known, see them as an outgrowth of the Smart Growth movement â€" the idea that development decisions should address a broad range of social and economic issues like transportation, jobs and housing."
But in New York City, it is becoming more commonplace for major projects to offer all sorts of concessions -- including free tickets to sports events and cash for local community groups. Critics worry that new developments are being evaluated on the generosity of the developer, and not the merits of the project.
FULL STORY: In Major Projects, Agreeing Not to Disagree
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.
The 120 Year Old Tiny Home Villages That Sheltered San Francisco’s Earthquake Refugees
More than a century ago, San Francisco mobilized to house thousands of residents displaced by the 1906 earthquake. Could their strategy offer a model for the present?
Alabama School Forestry Initiative Brings Trees to Schoolyards
Trees can improve physical and mental health for students and commnity members.
NYC Outdoor Dining Could Get a Re-Do
The city council is considering making the al fresco dining program year-round to address cost concerns from small businesses.
HSR Reaches Key Settlement in Northern California City
The state’s high-speed rail authority reached an agreement with Millbrae, a key city on the train’s proposed route to San Francisco.
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.
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Clanton & Associates, Inc.
Jessamine County Fiscal Court
Institute for Housing and Urban Development Studies (IHS)
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Harvard GSD Executive Education
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