💡 Fresh stories: Revolutionizing Inclusivity & 12 more
April 16, 2024 Edition
Proudly curated by Konveio
In this week’s newsletter, you’ll uncover new insights on how to improve urban life by reducing noise pollution, how to create more inclusive and effective public transit, and learn how one city is changing its car-centric design to be more sustainable in the future.
Don’t hesitate to reach out with recommendations, we’re always looking for your input!
Lauren Sibley
EngagingCities Editor
Featured Story
Revolutionizing Inclusivity
Vienna, known for its consistently high standard of living, serves as an exemplary model in urban planning and design, demonstrating a strong commitment to inclusivity. This approach offers valuable insights for companies in designing their office spaces, as a workplace can be likened to a miniaturized city with its own social and functional areas. Engaging different perspectives in the design process can reveal previously overlooked aspects, leading to a more inclusive and effective workplace environment. This mirrors Vienna's strategy in urban development, emphasizing the value of inclusivity and diversity in enhancing the quality of life and work for everyone.
— Shared by Nishtha Bali
Amplifying Progress
EngagingCities shares stories by our network of community builders that collaboratively plan for a brighter, cleaner, and more equitable tomorrow.
Featured stories from the last two weeks:
🔥 Hot Takes
🎤 Taking Action to Improve Urban Life
The issue of noise pollution in cities is complex and increasingly recognized as a significant public health concern. Enforcement of noise regulations disproportionately affects marginalized groups, while the major contributors to noise, such as large companies and corporations, often evade penalties. There is also the challenge of balancing regulation with the community needs and activities that may inherently be noisy. This ongoing debate highlights the complexities involved in reducing noise pollution and creating quieter, healthier urban environments.
— Shared by Diana Lind
🎤 Exploring Urban Neighborhoods - The Secret to Enriching and Sustainable City Experiences: Exploring the Synergy between Urbanism.
— Shared by Karla Urwitz
🎤 Barcelona's Bold Vision - Tranquil Streets Transformed into Pedestrian and Bike-Friendly Havens.
— Shared by Geri Quin
🎤 Unlocking a Brighter Future - The Keys to a Fresh Perspective on Urban Planning.
— Shared by Ryan Shore
📝 Insights
💡 Unlocking Equity and Transparency in Public Transit
Public transit is essential for the vitality of cities, towns, and villages, serving as a connector of communities, a reducer of congestion, and a promoter of environmental sustainability. However, public transit systems currently face challenges in funding and survivability, making it crucial to focus on sustainable operations to retain and attract riders. Creating an inclusive and sustainable public transit system involves more than just building physical structures; it's about fostering prosperity in communities and cities. By making equity and transparency central to these projects, we can ensure that the benefits of improved transportation are accessible to everyone, regardless of background or circumstances.
— Shared by A.J. Nazem
💡 The Secrets of New Urbanism - Building Sustainable and Vibrant Communities for Thriving Lives.
— Shared by Stephen J. Ferrandi
💡 Investing in Coping Capacities - The Key to Preventing Climate-Related Crises and Building Resilience.
— Shared by David Young
💡 The Power of Nature - Discover the untapped potential of Nature-Based Solutions.
— Shared by Jason Yhost
🥳 Success Stories
✅ Embracing a Sustainable Future
Austin's parking requirements, in place since the 1950s, varied based on the type of development. However, the city has been gradually reducing these requirements over the past decade, including removing parking mandates for new developments downtown in 2013 and for bars earlier this year. Despite the change, developers in Austin, a city long designed around car usage, indicate they might still include parking in new projects, even without the mandates. This decision reflects the ongoing challenge of shifting away from car-centric urban planning.
— Shared by Bryan White
✅ Transforming and Reimagining - Philadelphia Housing Authority Empowers Communities Through Grant Success.
— Shared by Leon Stimpson
✅ Unlocking Kansas City's Secrets - Discover how new urban developments are reshaping property values, lifestyle, and community growth.
— Shared by Max Nicholas
✅ Unveiling Frontrunner Park - How ALA's innovative design at The Downs is transforming the concept of urban living in southern Maine.
— Shared by Nick Aceto
🗓 Upcoming Events Mark your calendars
Webinar: 1/11/24 - Join the Conversation on Streamlined Clean Energy Zoning and Permits - Shared by Dahvi Wilson
💼 Featured Jobs Check them out
Capital Programs Senior Advisor with New York Housing Authority, Posted 11/1/23 in New York City, NY
Neighborhood Planner with Lowell City, Posted 11/6/23 in Lowell, MA
Chief Community Equity Officer with Charlotte City, Posted 11/6/23 in Charlotte, NC
Do you have interesting resources, events, etc. to share?
Send us your tips to hello@engagingcities.com