A recent study titled “Decoupling density from tallness in analysing the life cycle greenhouse gas emissions of cities” sheds light on the sustainability of urban development, challenging the prevailing notion that tall buildings equate to environmental efficiency. This research reaffirms key insights that have long been advocated on platforms like Treehugger, emphasizing the need for...
The city of Utrecht, Netherlands, has unveiled an ambitious initiative aimed at ensuring that every child has access to nearby playgrounds for daily play and physical activity. Under this plan, Utrecht aims to establish playgrounds within a radius of 650 feet (200 meters) of each residential home, fostering a culture of active and inclusive play...
Small Business Saturday, an initiative launched by American Express and the National Trust for Historic Preservation in 2010, celebrates and supports local businesses, emphasizing their integral role in vibrant communities. As cities worldwide embrace the concept of the 15-minute city—a vision where essential services are within a 15-minute walk or bike ride—small businesses emerge as...
Charles Marohn, a self-proclaimed “recovering engineer,” founded Strong Towns to advocate for fundamental changes in urban development practices, particularly criticizing the impact of professional engineering standards on city infrastructure. Despite facing scrutiny from his own profession, Marohn remains steadfast in his mission to reform urban planning and engineering norms. Rethinking Engineering Standards Marohn’s critique centers...
In Hamburg-Nord, Germany, a significant shift in housing policy has stirred controversy. Single-family houses are now prohibited in this borough, sparking discussions on urban development and sustainability. The decision, led by Green Party officials, reflects a growing concern over land use, energy consumption, and community planning. A Shift in Housing Policy The decision to ban...
Seattle’s Alaskan Way Viaduct, a defining feature of the city’s landscape, is set to bid farewell on January 11th at 10 p.m., marking the end of an era. This 2.2-mile elevated highway, once a bustling route for motorists, will be replaced by an underground roadway, promising a new chapter in Seattle’s infrastructure. Safety Concerns Drive...
The State of Pennsylvania has recently made a significant stride in the realm of autonomous technology by legalizing the utilization of sidewalks for autonomous delivery robots, also known as personal delivery devices (PDDs). These robots, capable of carrying loads of up to 550 pounds and cruising at speeds of 12 miles per hour, have been...
The transformation of Downsview Airport in Toronto has garnered recognition with a prestigious WAFX Award, celebrating innovative design solutions addressing global challenges, from climate action to community resilience. Historical Context Once the site of de Havilland Aircraft of Canada Limited, Downsview Airport played a significant role during World War II, manufacturing over a thousand wooden...
Defining Pedestrian Zones Pedestrian zones, characterized by the absence of vehicular traffic and often inclusive of bicycles, skateboards, and scooters, are designated areas within urban environments. These zones aim to enhance the pedestrian experience by providing safe, enjoyable pathways for individuals to explore shops, eateries, and communal spaces, free from the hazards and disturbances associated...
Assessing the Hazards In a recent exposition titled “The Pitfalls of One-Way Streets,” urban strategist Mark R. Brown delves into the myriad dangers inherent in these thoroughfares. Drawing from his extensive professional background, Brown illuminates the propensity for escalated speeds, heightened collision frequencies, and compromised safety for vulnerable road users navigating one-way streets. Recent Tragedies...