The L.A. Times architecture critic argues that the WTC design competition should be open to a broader group. Planners should have a larger role.
"To call the development corporation's process a competition is somewhat misleading. Real competitions are open to anyone--that is, to any designer willing to sacrifice the time, energy and money it takes to produce a viable proposal. Typically, a jury whittles down the original list of entries, which can number in the hundreds, to a handful of finalists. The finalists usually then compete in a second round before a winner is selected... Politicians, planners and critics have a role to play in all of this. They should offer their expertise. They should seek to educate the public on the implications of certain design and planning decisions. Ultimately, the network of politicians and agencies that rule the site will make the final decision."
Thanks to Kristen Richards
FULL STORY: Erasing Doubt in N.Y. Plan

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.

Study: Maui’s Plan to Convert Vacation Rentals to Long-Term Housing Could Cause Nearly $1 Billion Economic Loss
The plan would reduce visitor accommodation by 25,% resulting in 1,900 jobs lost.

Idaho Data: Unexpected Vehicle Repairs Exacerbate Housing Instability, Eviction Risk
Over 21 percent of clients struggle with transportation barriers.

A Year-Long Investigation On Permanent Supportive Housing
The New York Times reveals what’s working and what’s not in the cornerstone of Housing First.
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