A proposed regional plan in Reno, Nevada, is looking to make big steps towards increasing the area's density and environmental friendliness. But opponents are worried that a rise in density will create major infrastructure problems.
"Critics say the plan does nothing to stop out-of-control sprawl that will cost taxpayers money for wider roads and other services. And they say it masks a potential water shortage that could lead to more stringent water conservation measures for all residents."
"The draft plan sets new minimum densities for high-growth regional centers such as downtown Reno and Sparks and major corridors such as Virginia Street. Densities must average 45 units an acre in the downtowns and 30 units an acre for other regional centers and corridors."
"The cities and county must provide strategies for affordable housing and measurable goals. And the draft plan calls for the cities and county to promote the design of energy-efficient buildings including site location, as well as use of renewable energy sources such as solar."
FULL STORY: Regional plan update to back urban renewal
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.
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
City of Moreno Valley
Institute for Housing and Urban Development Studies (IHS)
City of Grandview
Harvard GSD Executive Education
Salt Lake City
NYU Wagner Graduate School of Public Service
City of Cambridge, Maryland