The Society for American City and Regional Planning History’s biannual meeting in Baltimore November 17-20 addressed a number of important aspects of urban poverty, including a tour and symposium focused on Baltimore itself. It would take some concentrated effort to adequately summarize the array of material presented, but a few observations are in order. The … Continue reading In Baltimore, Prospects for Alleviating Poverty?…
Cities
Still Corrupt and Still Contented?
My essay appearing in the Inquirer today had the narrow objective of placing Lincoln Steffens’ famous phrase, “Corrupt and Contented,” as it related to Philadelphia in the early 20th century. Clearly the phrase still resonates when applied to the city, but it has a broader resonance both for the early 20th century and our own … Continue reading Still Corrupt and Still Contented?…
Investing in Good Design for Public Structures
In his story about investments in good public design in New York City, the New York Times’ Michael Kimmelman has added a chapter in the history of what I have called “civitas by design,” physical interventions in communities with the intent of bringing citizens closer together. Kimmelman’s primary examples are libraries in poorer areas of … Continue reading Investing in Good Design for Public Structures…
What’s in a Design? Improved Health and Welfare in the South Bronx?
In reporting the completion of a new apartment complex in the South Bronx, Via Verde, the New York Times’ Michael Kimmelman has stressed the building’s architectural quality, its accessibility to those of moderate income, and the potentially healthful influences built into the building’s structure. In this last instance, Kimmelman has identified what I have chosen … Continue reading What’s in a Design? Improved Health and Welfare in the South Bronx?…
Affordable Housing at Risk in New Jersey?
Now, just when news breaks that poverty is at the highest rate as long as records have been kept in America, Governor Christie has announced permissive rules for communities seeking waivers from affordable housing obligations. According to today’s Inquirer story, the Christie administration’s Office of Community affairs can clear development after a ten-day waiting period. … Continue reading Affordable Housing at Risk in New Jersey?…
In Mount Holly, NJ, Use of Eminent Domain is Challenged
In Mount Holly, New Jersey, a federal appeals court has sided with homeowners in their suit to block their displacement from an affordable 1950s housing project to make way for new development. The decision is unusual but timely: unusual in that courts have recently favored the use of eminent domain when planners make the case … Continue reading In Mount Holly, NJ, Use of Eminent Domain is Challenged…