Where Am I? The Power of Uniqueness
What’s the value of uniqueness and community identity? That’s the question ULI analyst — and long-time Planning Commissioners Journal columnist — Ed McMahon addresses in his dynamic 17-minute TED Talk.
Livable Communities
Articles and postings focusing on different ways in which we can plan for more livable communities for all our citizens.
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Most Recent Articles
Part 2: The Emergence of Form-Based Codes
The concepts of “urban form” and “the public realm,” central to form-based codes, are absent from the conventional zoning vocabulary. A look at key differences between FBCs and traditional zoning.
Neighborhood Vibrancy: Older and Smaller Can Sometimes Be Better
Why is it that neighborhoods with older, smaller buildings often seem more vibrant than those with larger, newer ones? Ed McMahon explores this question, highlighting some recent research.
Coming Full Circle
Antia Rasmussen concludes her series of articles on the small city of Sartell, Minnesota, with an update on “Old Blue” and a report about her encounter with some thoughtful fourth graders.
Planning Commissioners Can Promote Quality of Life
In what ways does “quality of life” most matter for young adults — and for seniors? In this month’s Across Generations column, Stuart Andreason and Jennifer Wallace-Brodeur respond to that question.
American Public Health Association Takes Stand on Noise Pollution
Yesterday at its annual meeting, the American Public Health Association adopted a policy statement on noise pollution. A brief description of what APHA is calling for.
Great Places for All Ages
We’re excited to be introducing a year-long series focusing on issues facing both young and old. In the kick-off piece, a look at the growing interest among senior citizens in aging-in-place.
Reflections on Portland: A Sense of Place … and More
Individuality; distinctiveness; sense of place — it’s what makes a city interesting to residents and visitors alike. Plus: creative entrepreneurship in Portland; it’s all in the details; and does Portland work for everyone?
Reflections on Portland: Nature in the City & Water
After spending ten days in Portland, Oregon, PlannersWeb Editor Wayne Senville reflects on nature in the city and the role of water. More reflections from Senville over the next few days.
A Tale of Three Parks
Three of Portland’s newest urban parks serve the booming Pearl District, north of downtown. Each park has its own special identity and character — the result of a thoughtful planning process.
Can Intersections Lead to Stronger Neighborhoods & Empowered Residents?
What do street intersections have to do with strong neighborhoods and empowered citizens? Aren’t intersections just for dividing up blocks, and getting traffic through? Take a look at a program that’s turned intersections on their head.
A Call to Action … and to Walking
“The built environment is health policy and social policy in concrete,” says Dr. Richard Jackson, in documenting the connection the public health impacts of how we plan and build our communities.
Making Neighborhoods More Walkable – Part 2
We continue our walk, discussing Portland’s innovative design regulations; the boom in bicycle parking; and the condition of city sidewalks.
