Illinois

The Architectural Glory of Historic Warehouses
Chicago warehouses were once built with architectural flair, but today’s industrial structures don’t come close.

Two Skyline Changing Apartment Towers Proposed to Rise on the Site of Chicago's Failed Spire
An infamous site has new development life after developers returned to the public with a revised project proposal.

National Shared Mobility Summit Cancelled Due to Coronavirus Fears
Planning conferences are among the events experiencing the effects of Coronavirus mitigation measures.

Illinois Could Force Statewide Legislation of Accessory Dwelling Units
State legislation would preempt local governments that block the construction of accessory dwelling units, known locally as coach houses, to increase the supply of affordable housing options in the state.

No Slowdown of Out-Migration of Black Residents from Chicago
The city of Chicago continues to see a decline in population, including tens of thousands of African-Americans who have left in recent years.

Chicago to Pilot All-Door Bus Boarding
Chicago is late to the game on all-door bus boarding, but that will change this summer.

Opinion: Improved Commuter Rail Services Would Better Serve Chicago’s South Side Residents
The city’s South Side residents need more transit options, but an extension of the Chicago Transit Authority’s Red Line would be a costly and less effective alternative.

Residential Development Proposed for Chicago’s Goose Island
A plan for the riverfront property would bring thousands of housing units to the historically industrial area.

Tax Increment Financing Reforms Promised by Chicago Mayor Lightfoot
The controversial tax break known as TIF looks headed for reforms in the Windy City, as Mayor Lori Lightfoot promises reforms that ensure more equitable application of the benefits of TIF.

The Impact of Segregation and Disinvestment on Chicago's Black Population
The city is losing black residents, but those who stay are relocating to parts of the city with less transportation access and opportunities.

Extension Planned for The 606 Takes Crucial Step Forward
Plans to extend The 606 bike and pedestrian path north to the planned Lincoln Yards mega-development project recently took a crucial step forward.

Proposed Development Moratorium Near Chicago's 606 Linear Park Causes Political Spat
Two aldermen want to halt all development activity The 606, also known as the Bloomingdale Trail, in Chicago to slow gentrification near the popular linear park.

Chicago Financial District Doesn't Need a N.Y.C. High Line
An elevated walkway along Chicago’s LaSalle Street would not foster the vibrant street life that proponents envision.

Proposed $20 Billion Chicago Megaproject Gets Reprieve
The 34-acre One Central project still faces opposition, but an extension on a federal loan application could give it a much-needed boost.

LEDs, Downward Lights Changing the Night in Chicago
The nighttime illumination of Chicago is almost finished with a complete overhaul of its streetlights, producing a dramatic effect in the nighttime environment of the city.

Chicago Planning Commissioner Focuses on Disinvested Neighborhoods
A new initiative seeks to bring investment dollars to Chicago communities that for decades have suffered from the loss of wealth and population.

Experts: Great Lakes Hyperloop Study Full of Dubious Claims
About that Hyperloop report…

Chicago-Cleveland Hyperloop Estimated at $29.8 Billion
A feasibility analysis published today estimates costs and benefits for the still-unproven Hyperloop technology, as envisioned for a route connecting Cleveland and Chicago.

Making Climate Change a Priority for Transportation Planning
The threat of climate change has not guided transportation planning in Chicago, and the city and region could be doing much more to promote sustainable transportation, according to the article.

How Peoria Is Putting Green Infrastructure to Work
Peoria's new stormwater farm takes the pressure off its outdated combined sewer system. It's part of a larger effort by the city to align green infrastructure with social equity goals.
Pagination
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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.
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Learn the tools for implementing Universal Design in planning regulations.
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