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Radio Free Urbanism
Radio Free Urbanism
Author: Alex Williams | Ethan Meyers | Nic Laporte
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© Copyright 2026 Alex Williams | Ethan Meyers | Nic Laporte
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The voice of the urbanist! Join Alex, Nic, and Ethan as we discuss the optimistic future of urbanism, city planning, and transit in North America!
98 Episodes
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Join Alex Davis and Sully Israel as they explore New Jersey's ridiculous new E-bike laws, Two huge decision at LA Metro that will shape the future of rail transit in the county, and the battle over SB 79--California's most controversial housing law. Send us a question: radiofreeurbanism@gmail.comPatreon: patreon.com/RadioFreeUrbanismSully: https://www.youtube.com/@UCcBHKCWkckK5KqqEnvc61RwAlex: https://www.youtube.com/@UCyeWE5ok9X5saI8nnC31Acw
Join Alex Davis and Sully Israel as they delve into the complexities of LA Metro's fare enforcement, the challenges facing urban transit systems, and the power of advocacy in shaping public policy. Send us a question: radiofreeurbanism@gmail.com Patreon: patreon.com/RadioFreeUrbanism Sully: https://www.youtube.com/@UCcBHKCWkckK5KqqEnvc61Rw Alex: https://www.youtube.com/@UCyeWE5ok9X5saI8nnC31Acw
In this very special episode Alex Williams returns once again to share his experience running in the Calgary municipal election. Toronto has reversed it's old zoning laws and once again allows small shops in neighborhoods. Nic talks about his time on the show coming to an end. Send us a question: radiofreeurbanism@gmail.comPatreon: patreon.com/RadioFreeUrbanismSully: https://www.youtube.com/@SullyvilleEthan: https://www.youtube.com/@climateandtransitNic: https://www.youtube.com/@nicthedoorAlex: https://www.youtube.com/@humanecities
Helsinki reaches vision zero! and California SB 79 talk.Send us a question: radiofreeurbanism@gmail.comPatreon: patreon.com/RadioFreeUrbanismSully: https://www.youtube.com/@SullyvilleEthan: https://www.youtube.com/@climateandtransitNic: https://www.youtube.com/@nicthedoor
In this episode of Radio Free Urbanism, hosts Nic Laporte and Ethan Meyers engage with their audience while discussing the current political climate's impact on urban infrastructure, particularly regarding pedestrian safety and bike lanes. They emphasize the importance of community action and local initiatives in driving change, while also sharing personal updates on their projects. The conversation highlights the challenges faced in urban planning and the need for continued advocacy and engagement from listeners.Send us a question: radiofreeurbanism@gmail.comPatreon: patreon.com/RadioFreeUrbanismSully: https://www.youtube.com/@SullyvilleEthan: https://www.youtube.com/@climateandtransitNic: https://www.youtube.com/@nicthedoorhttps://www.msn.com/en-us/politics/government/trump-admin-cancels-grants-for-pedestrian-safety-and-bike-lanes-calling-them-hostile/ar-AA1NePx0?ocid=BingNewsSerphttps://www.ctvnews.ca/toronto/politics/queens-park/article/enough-is-enough-doug-ford-moves-to-ban-speed-cameras-in-ontario-next-month/https://biketalk.org/2025/09/agree-to-disagree/
Nic watched Hacks...and wants to know if you would live in a mall. They explore the redevelopment of malls into mixed-use spaces, the integration of art in urban environments, and the impact of these changes on community safety. The conversation also touches on the unique urban planning practices of the Amish community and their adoption of e-bikes. The episode concludes with reflections on the future of urban spaces and the importance of thoughtful planning. In this conversation, Ethan Meyers and Nic Laporte discuss various aspects of cycling infrastructure, particularly in smaller cities and the Netherlands. They explore the challenges and successes of implementing cycling-friendly policies, the importance of public transit in accessing nature, and the intricacies of content creation on platforms like YouTube.Miles in Transit: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=QacR2MYZFCM Send us a question: radiofreeurbanism@gmail.comPatreon: patreon.com/RadioFreeUrbanismSully: https://www.youtube.com/@SullyvilleEthan: https://www.youtube.com/@climateandtransitNic: https://www.youtube.com/@nicthedoor
In this episode of Radio Free Urbanism, hosts Ethan Meyers and Sully Israel discuss various urbanism topics, including the controversial removal of Pride crosswalks in Florida, the implications of infrastructure decisions on community representation, and the growing trends in micro-mobility. They explore the health benefits of walkable cities and the importance of data in urban planningSend us a question: radiofreeurbanism@gmail.comPatreon: patreon.com/RadioFreeUrbanismSully: https://www.youtube.com/@SullyvilleEthan: https://www.youtube.com/@climateandtransitNic: https://www.youtube.com/@nicthedoor
The long-awaited rollout of Amtrak's new Acela Express trains, highlighting their innovative features and the challenges faced during development. The conversation then shifts to the importance of public art in urban spaces, exploring the impact of NIMBYism on art installations and the necessity of integrating art into city planning for community engagement and identity. In this engaging conversation, the hosts explore various urban planning topics, including the humorous saga of a splash pad in Santa Barbara, the challenges of San Francisco's Vision Zero initiative aimed at reducing traffic fatalities, and insights into bicycle infrastructure and innovative urban planning examples. The discussion highlights the complexities and absurdities of city planning, community engagement, and the importance of effective infrastructure for public safety and accessibility.Send us a question: radiofreeurbanism@gmail.comPatreon: patreon.com/RadioFreeUrbanismSully: https://www.youtube.com/@SullyvilleEthan: https://www.youtube.com/@climateandtransitNic: https://www.youtube.com/@nicthedoor
In this episode of Radio Free Urbanism, the recent Ontario court ruling that deemed the removal of bike lanes unconstitutional, the progressive housing policy changes in Oregon, and California's SB 79 which mandates minimum zoning near transit stops. The conversation highlights the challenges of urban planning, the importance of integrating transit and housing policies, and critiques the reliance on anecdotal evidence in urban debates. In this episode of Radio Free Urbanism, the hosts delve into various urbanism topics, including the peculiarities of urban enclaves and exclaves, the importance of pedestrian infrastructure, and the implications of pedestrian crossing distances. They also discuss listener mail regarding helmet culture and safety, insights into the housing market in Los Angeles, and the potential for disability infrastructure to enhance community mobility. The conversation highlights the complexities of urban planning and the cultural attitudes that influence safety and accessibility in urban environments.Send us a question: radiofreeurbanism@gmail.comPatreon: patreon.com/RadioFreeUrbanism Sully: https://www.youtube.com/@SullyvilleEthan: https://www.youtube.com/@climateandtransitNic: https://www.youtube.com/@nicthedoor
In this episode of Radio Free Urbanism, hosts Ethan and Sully discuss pressing issues surrounding urban transit funding in Oregon, the political dynamics affecting transportation policies, and the importance of bike lanes in urban planning. They explore the impact of funding cuts on communities, the controversies surrounding highway widening projects, and the need for consistent transit funding. The conversation also delves into listener mail, where they share personal insights about their families' perspectives on urbanism and the challenges of advocating for better urban planning.Send us a question: radiofreeurbanism@gmail.comPatreon: patreon.com/RadioFreeUrbanismSully: https://www.youtube.com/@SullyvilleEthan: https://www.youtube.com/@climateandtransitNic: https://www.youtube.com/@nicthedoor
In this episode removal of bike lanes in California, the implications of helmet laws for cyclist safety, and the ongoing funding issues surrounding the California High-Speed Rail project. They also explore architectural preferences, the importance of mixed-use developments, and the impact of urban design on communities. The conversation highlights the complexities of urban planning and the need for better infrastructure to support sustainable transportation.Send us a question: radiofreeurbanism@gmail.comPatreon: patreon.com/RadioFreeUrbanism Sully: https://www.youtube.com/@SullyvilleEthan: https://www.youtube.com/@climateandtransitNic: https://www.youtube.com/@nicthedoor
In this episode of Radio Free Urbanism, the hosts discuss Vancouver's recent decision to lower speed limits on local streets to improve safety for pedestrians and cyclists. They explore the importance of traffic calming measures, such as modal filters, in creating safer urban environments. The conversation emphasizes the need for community engagement in urban planning and the role of public transit in enhancing mobility.Send us a question: radiofreeurbanism@gmail.comPatreon: patreon.com/RadioFreeUrbanism Sully: https://www.youtube.com/@SullyvilleEthan: https://www.youtube.com/@climateandtransitNic: https://www.youtube.com/@nicthedoor
In this new episode of Radio Free Urbanism, Ethan and Sully catch up on what they have both been up to this month. Covering the main topics of the two new transit openings in the southwestern part of the United States.Send us a question: radiofreeurbanism@gmail.comPatreon: patreon.com/RadioFreeUrbanism Instagram: https://rb.gy/ezn9rzSully: https://www.youtube.com/@SullyvilleEthan: https://www.youtube.com/@climateandtransitNic: https://www.youtube.com/@nicthedoor
In this episode of Radio Free Urbanism, Nic and Sully discuss their recent experiences at the Strong Towns convention and their reflections on urban planning in cities like Boston and Providence. They explore the implications of e-bikes in urban environments, the criminalization of cyclists in NYC, and the impact of historical urban renewal projects. The conversation emphasizes the need for innovative infrastructure, community engagement, and a balanced approach to urban mobility. In this conversation, Nic Laporte and Sully discuss the challenges and opportunities surrounding e-bikes and urban infrastructure. They explore the importance of separating different modes of transportation, the role of local governance in shaping public perception, and the need for innovative solutions in bike infrastructure. The discussion also touches on personal experiences with e-bikes, comparisons between cycling infrastructure in Copenhagen and Amsterdam, and the ongoing fight for car-free streets in their communities.Send us a question: radiofreeurbanism@gmail.comPatreon: patreon.com/RadioFreeUrbanism Instagram: https://rb.gy/ezn9rzSully: https://www.youtube.com/@SullyvilleEthan: https://www.youtube.com/@climateandtransitNic: https://www.youtube.com/@nicthedoor
In this episode of Radio Free Urbanism - we are joined by Urban Planner and and social media influencer Hayden Clarkin. They explore Hayden's path to urbanism and discuss some of the interesting ways on how to build more transit and for cheaper.Hayden Clarkin (@thetransitguy) • Instagram photos and videos Send us a question: radiofreeurbanism@gmail.comPatreon: https://www.patreon.com/c/RadioFreeUrbanism Sully @Sullyville Nic @nicthedoor Ethan
In this episode of Radio Free Urbanism - we are joined by YouTuber and urbanism enthusiast Alexander Rotmensz. They explore Alex’s path into urbanism, the power of beautiful design, and the role of community in shaping cities. The conversation covers the impact of architectural styles on identity, debates between modern and traditional architecture, and the influence of NIMBYism. They also highlight the transformative potential of e-bikes, cultural attitudes toward mobility, and the importance of infrastructure in supporting biking and walking. The episode wraps with a look at Hampstead as a model for thoughtful urban planning.Alex: https://www.youtube.com/@alexanderrotmensz Send us a question: radiofreeurbanism@gmail.comPatreon: patreon.com/RadioFreeUrbanism Instagram: https://rb.gy/ezn9rzSully: https://www.youtube.com/@SullyvilleEthan: https://www.youtube.com/@climateandtransitNic: https://www.youtube.com/@nicthedoor
In this episode of Radio Free Urbanism, speeding enforcement in New York City and Paris’s transformation into a leading child-friendly cycling city. They discuss North America’s contrasting approach to school safety, the challenges of adapting European urban models, and the need for community engagement in planning. The episode also highlights Seattle’s light rail expansion, innovations in transportation, and strategies to improve child mobility. Other topics include the cultural role of street vending, urban transit developments, and listener feedback on events like Bike to Work Day. The episode closes with research on reducing car dependency and promoting sustainable transportation.Send us a question: radiofreeurbanism@gmail.comPatreon: patreon.com/RadioFreeUrbanism Instagram: https://rb.gy/ezn9rzSully: https://www.youtube.com/@SullyvilleEthan: https://www.youtube.com/@climateandtransitNic: https://www.youtube.com/@nicthedoor
In this episode of Radio Free Urbanism, hosts Nic, Sully, and Ethan cover Sacramento’s automated bike lane enforcement and Vision Zero funding battles in Pierce County, to the challenges of designing roads for both emergency access and pedestrian safety. They discuss transit developments in Los Angeles, bike infrastructure standards, and housing regulations in California, while also reflecting on jaywalking’s cultural history and a tragic incident in Vancouver that underscores the urgent need for safer, more equitable urban design.Send us a question: radiofreeurbanism@gmail.comPatreon: patreon.com/RadioFreeUrbanism Instagram: https://rb.gy/ezn9rzSully: https://www.youtube.com/@SullyvilleEthan: https://www.youtube.com/@climateandtransitNic: https://www.youtube.com/@nicthedoor
In this episode Sully talks with Peter Norton, author of Fighting Traffic: The Dawn of the Motor Age in the American City.Peter Norton: https://bsky.app/profile/norton.bsky.social Fighting Traffic: https://amzn.to/431jI48 Send us a question: radiofreeurbanism@gmail.comPatreon: patreon.com/RadioFreeUrbanism Instagram: https://rb.gy/ezn9rzSully: https://www.youtube.com/@SullyvilleEthan: https://www.youtube.com/@climateandtransitNic: https://www.youtube.com/@nicthedoor
In this episode Ethan, Nic, and Sully discuss the closure of Pike Place Market to cars, LA Metro’s light rail expansion to LAX, and the idea of Freedom Cities. They explore housing challenges in cities like Baltimore and Philadelphia, the HLA lawsuit in Los Angeles, and the difficulty of making public transit profitable. The conversation highlights the importance of headways, accountability in urban planning, and balancing the roles of cars, transit, and AI in city governance.Send us a question: radiofreeurbanism@gmail.comPatreon: patreon.com/RadioFreeUrbanism Instagram: https://rb.gy/ezn9rzSully: https://www.youtube.com/@SullyvilleEthan: https://www.youtube.com/@climateandtransitNic: https://www.youtube.com/@nicthedoorLinksBest Side Cycling - Car Free Pike Place: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=aVCvnZnqyEIFreedom Cities: https://tinyurl.com/2z8carjbHLA Lawsuit: https://www.streetsforall.org/blog/first-hla-lawsuit





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