Japan has pulled the plug on an ambitious stadium plan, expected to cost $2 billion and designed by one of the world's most famous architects.
"The Japanese government has scrapped controversial plans for a dramatic Zaha Hadid-designed $2bn (£1.3bn) stadium envisioned as the focal point of the 2020 Tokyo Olympics, amid concern about rising costs and a growing public backlash," reports Owen Gibson.
Yoshirō Mori, chairman of the Tokyo 2020 organizing committee, "said he had taken the decision after being reassured that there was still time to draw up new plans and complete the new stadium, on the site of the existing national stadium, before the 2020 Olympics."
The decision to scrap the plans for the stadium also impacts the 2019 Rugby World Cup, scheduled to be played in the stadium. The article includes more details about the controversy inspired by the stadium's design in the architecture world.
FULL STORY: Japan scraps Zaha Hadid plan for Olympic stadium

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.

Ken Jennings Launches Transit Web Series
The Jeopardy champ wants you to ride public transit.

Washington Legislature Passes Rent Increase Cap
A bill that caps rent increases at 7 percent plus inflation is headed to the governor’s desk.

From Planning to Action: How LA County Is Rethinking Climate Resilience
Chief Sustainability Officer Rita Kampalath outlines the County’s shift from planning to implementation in its climate resilience efforts, emphasizing cross-departmental coordination, updated recovery strategies, and the need for flexible funding.

New Mexico Aging Department Commits to Helping Seniors Age ‘In Place’ and ‘Autonomously’ in New Draft Plan
As New Mexico’s population of seniors continues to grow, the state’s aging department is proposing expanded initiatives to help seniors maintain their autonomy while also supporting family caregivers.
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
Ada County Highway District
Institute for Housing and Urban Development Studies (IHS)
City of Grandview
Harvard GSD Executive Education
Toledo-Lucas County Plan Commissions
Salt Lake City
NYU Wagner Graduate School of Public Service