Recession
Homes in Snohomish Suburbs and Exurbs Suffer
Mark Hinshaw writes that back in 2006, developers were snatching up any bit of undeveloped land in Snohomish County, WA. Today, those far-flung projects have suffered much more than inner-city developments.
The Uneasy Transition in Post-Recession Seattle
While some have pigeonholed him as anti-business, Seattle Mayor Mike McGinn is taking the city through the recovery of the economy in a positive but potentially hard-to-swallow way, according to this column.
Cities and Suburbs Converge into New Economic Generators
As the downturn in the market physically reshapes the metropolitan regions of the United States, the shifting populations and economies of its cities and suburban areas are becoming increasingly intertwined.
Walk, Don't Drive, to the Real Estate Recovery
The New York Times, in a front page article, was startled to conclude that the housing market continued to suffer, because "buyers now demand something smaller, cheaper and, thanks to $4 a gallon gas, as close to their jobs as possible."
The Age of DIY Urbanism
Economic crises tend to manifest themselves in specific design trends, especially in the field of architecture. This latest recession has spurred the age of Do-It-Yourself architecture and urbanism.
Rural States See Housing Rebound
While the recession has affected the housing market across the country, the few state that are showing signs of recovery are mostly rural.
Turning "Redfields" Into Urban Parks
Jonathan Lerner gives an extensive analysis of the benefits of turning failed commercial properties, or "redfields", into strategically-picked park land for revitalization purposes. Some conversion would be permanent, some just land banking.
Cities Preparing for Lower Revenues
As recession-reduced property tax levels begin to play out in cities across the U.S., municipalities are beginning to react to the realities of lowered revenues.
The Most Dynamic Cities in the Post-Crash World
A new report from the Brookings Institution lists the 30 most dynamic cities in the world -- cities that are recovering from the global economic downturn with growth in employment and income.
Two Major Projects, Some Trouble in Kansas City
Two major projects underway in Kansas City will make a significant impact on the city's downtown and skyline, but problems with one may delay its completion.
U.S. Cities Still Feeling Impact of Recession
A new report from the National League of Cities suggests urban areas will face diminished revenues through 2011 and beyond.
Applying "Smart Decline" in Vegas
Las Vegas columnist Scott Dickensheets turns to Tufts planning professor Justin Hollander to ask what Sin City should do to combat plummeting home values and draining population.
County Stuck With Mall It Bought At Cusp of Recession
Chesterfield County, Virginia purchased the ailing Cloverleaf Mall two years ago with the idea of turning it into a mixed-use development. One recession later, the mall still stands and the city is stuck with an "expensive eyesore".
The Growing Problem of Suburban Poverty
Suburban areas are becoming hotbeds for rising poverty. Though migration has a role, much of the transition from middle class to welfare has been caused by the housing crisis and recession.
Americans Driving at 2005 Levels
Americans are driving fewer miles than they were a year ago, despite an improving economy. Some say the American demand for oil will be low throughout the rest of this year.
Jobs Remain Elusive in Many Metros
Only 16 of 384 metropolitan areas saw job increases over the last year, according to a new study.
How the Recession is Downsizing Local Government
Budget cuts are dramatically reshaping many local governments. This piece from The Atlanta Journal-Constitution looks at how the recession will restructure governments in the Atlanta area.
Banks Swing Hammers to Finish Homes
Builders can't get credit but they may get jobs from banks, who, because of foreclosures, have unfinished homes that they need help completing.
Driving on the Rise in America
After more than two years of declines in American driving patterns, the amount of driving seems to be on the rise.
Zoning Loosened to Help Home Businesses
The rough economy has made code officers negotiators between irked neighbors and entrepreneurs trying to make a living in their living rooms.
Pagination
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.
Caltrans
Smith Gee Studio
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