While the Covid-19 pandemic complicates their efforts, two Kansas libraries offer case studies in successfully drawing visitors downtown with makerspaces. Budding entrepreneurs in Overland Park, KS (est. pop. 192,525), can try their hands at a variety of technologies — including 3D printers, high-end video software, a TV studio, a sound studio, and machines for laser…To read more — login/subscribe
The recovery from the coronavirus crisis threatens to be arduous and slow-moving. But architects Alan Pullman and Shannon Heffernan say there are steps cities and their downtowns can take now to speed the revival. Pullman and Heffernan, of urban design firm Studio One Eleven in Long Beach, CA, urge cities to use “parklets” and “flex…To read more — login/subscribe
In the 20th century, many cities tried to contain creeks, streams, and small rivers with concrete culverts and other engineering projects. In the 21st century, growing numbers of imprisoned waterways are being set free. Restoring waterways to something like their natural order is a process known as “daylighting.” The restoration projects are gaining attention globally…To read more — login/subscribe
After a decade of planning, the Shasta Bike Depot opened this year in downtown Redding, CA (est. pop. 92,896). With support of $4.5 million from the McConnell Foundation, a local nonprofit, Shasta Living Streets operates the new facility. It features a secure place for people to park their bikes, a bikeshare program, bike tours, and…To read more — login/subscribe
In Chicago, a group known as The Divvy Fishers Society has been retrieving discarded bike-share cycles from the chilly waters of Lake Michigan. The teams of volunteers use ropes and carabiners to drag Divvy bikes from the lake, reports BlockClubChicago. Bike sharing has emerged as a popular micromobility option in downtowns worldwide. But a number…To read more — login/subscribe
Cities nationally are embracing a low-cost way to boost traffic safety and reduce pedestrian fatalities: They’re installing street murals. Compared to installing roundabouts or narrowing streets, asphalt art is a quick and inexpensive way to slow cars and make motorists more aware of their surroundings. Fast Company magazine labeled the concept a "ridiculously simple" way…Continue reading
The city of Auburn, ME, wants to support small local grocery stores — and it’s using $150,000 in American Rescue Plan funding to make that goal a reality. The Auburn Neighborhood Corner Store program aims to give $35,000 apiece to each of four local grocers. To be eligible, stores must generate at least half their…Continue reading
Downtown professionals and city leaders discouraged with lackluster RFP responses or development agreements, which have fallen through can look to Palatka, FL, for inspiration. The city’s riverfront park and marina redevelopment plan was completed in 2004, but never adopted. Municipal officials hoped the downtown waterfront location of two blocks adjacent to a city park would…Continue reading
