Philadelphia magazine says a staffing decision by new Mayor Jim Kenney is a big victory for urbanists and bike advocates.
"Mayor Jim Kenney is creating a brand-new position in his administration called the 'Complete Streets Commissioner,'" according to an article by Holly Otterbein.
The article calls the pending hire "proof of how far urbanists have come over the last few years," before providing a rundown of the anti-bike initiatives proposed in the city only a few years ago—one by then-Councilmember Kenney himself. Now, however, "Bikers and urbanists are a recognized political constituency in the city, deemed deserving of virtually their own commissioner."
The article includes a quote from Kenney spokeswoman Lauren Hitt, who says the new position will oversee the process of "making sure our streets are as multimodal as possible, including advocating for protected bike lanes." Hitt also told Otterbein that the new commissioner "will implement what the Kenney administration is calling its 'dig-once' policy, which seeks to cut back on the number of times that the city's utilities rip up the streets."
FULL STORY: Urbanists, Rejoice: Philly Is Getting Its First Complete Streets Commissioner

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.
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