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Walkability, quality of life and healthy, vibrant Communities all come together in one package
Published on November 21, 2013
Jeff Speck advocated creating walkable communities with his book Walkable City. Speck was a featured speaker at the Michigan Association of Planning conference in Kalamazoo, Mich. -
Parking meters and evening hours can increase downtown retail shopping
Published on November 21, 2013
Putting in parking meters and keeping stores open in the evening hours were two of many techniques for increasing commerce. -
President Obama declares November “Critical Infrastructure Security and Resilience Month”
Published on November 21, 2013
The U.S. Department of Homeland Security (DHS) recommends actions that all Americans take to assist in protecting our infrastructure from disasters and other hazards. -
The “Triple Bottom Line” in Michigan’s coastal communities - Element 8: Mixed transportation
Published on November 19, 2013
Environmentally sound transportation options that allow for movement of people and goods within, between and beyond coastal communities have the potential to improve the quality of life for residents and visitors, and sustain local and regional economies. -
New map allows for an interesting look at Michigan communities
Published on November 19, 2013
Synthetic data map allows for a new, more complete look at the social and economic makeup of communities. -
Should your professional planning staff have AICP certification?
Published on November 17, 2013
In my discussions with other professional planners there seems to be mixed feelings about the planning certification as well as the professional education. -
Mixed-use walkable communities are what the market wants
Published on November 17, 2013
Neighborhoods that have a mix of houses and stores and other businesses that are accessibly by foot are preferred nearly 2 to 1. -
Porous pavement: A not-so-new low-impact design technique
Published on November 17, 2013
That childhood saying “when it rains, it pours” may be getting an update to “when it rains, it’s porous.” Using low-impact design techniques can reduce stormwater runoff and protect local water resources. -
Communities have many options in addressing zoning needs
Published on November 14, 2013
As a regulatory tool, zoning was designed to mitigate nuisances, preserve property values and provide some certainty of land use. However, since its inception, the tool now has many variations. -
The “Triple Bottom Line” in Michigan’s coastal communities – Element 7: Develop inward not outward
Published on November 10, 2013
Targeting development within existing communities and revitalizing waterfront areas with historical significance can improve the quality of life for residents, foster economic growth of local businesses and protect environmentally sensitive areas.