In Philadelphia, the Gaming Control Board is made up of 10 men, 9 of which don't live in the city. A recent decision by the board will destroy two planned developments that would have improve Philly's character, says arch. critic Inga Saffron.
Developer Foxwoods had planned a slots parlor in Philadelphia's commercial core, but the gaming commission ordered it moved to a greenfield along the Delaware River.
"Foxwoods' effort to set up a Market Street gambling operation in the elegant spaces of the former Strawbridge & Clothier department store was not without its challenges - or controversy. But the site appealed to a broad constituency who believed that an entertainment use represented the last, best hope for the historic emporium - now going into its fourth year of darkness - as well as a tonic for Philadelphia's ailing retail street."
FULL STORY: Changing Skyline: Time to play hardball on site for Foxwoods

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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.
City of Albany
UCLA Lewis Center for Regional Policy Studies
Mpact (formerly Rail~Volution)
Chaddick Institute at DePaul University
City of Piedmont, CA
Great Falls Development Authority, Inc.
HUDs Office of Policy Development and Research