Top stories:
State DOTs, Smart Growth Group Highlight How to Stretch Transportation Funds
Governing – September 10, 2012
A group of state Department of Transportation directors has teamed up with the smart growth movement to release a new best-practices report that offers recommendations and case studies on how to stretch limited transportation dollars.
“Walkable urban” places enjoy economic success, but face social equity challenges
Greater Greater Washington – September 10, 2012
After decades of disinvestment and suburban flight, the Washington region’s urban neighborhoods are now driving the local economy, says a study from George Washington University professor Christopher Leinberger. However, ensuring that everyone can participate in these communities will be a top challenge for the future.
FHWA Offers a Guide for American Cities and Towns Considering Bike-Share
Streetsblog – September 10, 2012
The Federal Highway Administration has come out with a handy report for communities thinking about getting into the bike-sharing game. Based on a study of 12 planned and existing bike-sharing systems from around the U.S., the report is intended to help explain the basics of bike-share and guide cities through the choices they’ll face when launching a system.
Bike-lane cultural revolution pokes along in some cities
USA Today – September 10, 2012
Though American cities are slowly making way for bicycles, the battle in many areas is hard-fought on both sides. Many drivers feel bikes take precious space on already bursting streets. Cyclists say they are subject to abuse and even attack when they claim their equal right to the roads.
Local news:
Boulder city officials to host idea sharing workshop on civic area
Daily Camera (CO) – September 10, 2012
City officials are inviting residents to take part in a community-wide collaboration workshop at Boulder High School this week that will feed into the unique, long-term planning process for Boulder’s downtown civic area.
Chicago’s first pedestrian plan includes great ideas, lacks some information
Grid Chicago (IL) – September 10, 2012
The Pedestrian Plan has its merits and faults. The document is nicely designed, easy to read, informative (it does a great job introducing people to “pedestrian safety tools” that are mentioned later in the plan), but still speaks to the car-centric profession of traffic (transportation) engineering exhibited in Chicago.
Developer planning 7-tower project on former Portland scrapyards
Sun Journal (ME) – September 11, 2012
Long-awaited plans for a Bayside neighborhood project would convert an area of former rail- and scrapyard into seven tall towers for housing and retail space.
WNY development council picks 24 projects to fund
Buffalo News (NY) – September 10, 2012
The Western New York Regional Economic Development Council on Monday endorsed 24 specific local projects as its regional priorities, as it competes with three other regions in the state for one of two $25 million state awards for capital investment. The 24 projects are intended to advance the strategic plan that the council has already developed through investments in workforce development, entrepreneurship, smart growth infrastructure, advanced manufacturing, renewable energy and tourism.
Sachse moves HQ to downtown Detroit, brings 45 employees
Model D – September 11, 2012
Sachse Construction is relocating its headquarters from Birmingham to downtown Detroit, a move that will bring 45 new employees to the Motor City’s core.