Urban Planning is Not Boring

Welcome back to Urban Planning is Not Boring! In this episode, we dive into an acronym many of you are likely familiar with, VMT. We start by breaking down the concept of VMT - vehicle miles traveled - which essentially measures the total distance traveled by vehicles, typically on a daily basis. To illustrate, imagine driving 20 miles to work, 5 miles to the gym, and 15 miles back home from the gym. That totals to 40 vehicle miles traveled for the day. But why does VMT matter? We explore the legislative context surrounding VMT, particularly in California where initiatives like SB 743 have revolutionized the way transportation impacts are evaluated for new development projects. Instead of solely focusing on traffic flow and congestion reduction (Level of Service (LOS)), the emphasis has shifted towards reducing VMT to combat issues like greenhouse gas emissions. But it's not just about legislation; reducing VMT brings a multitude of co-benefits, from mitigating air pollution and water pollution to promoting active lifestyles and improving mental health. We examine various approaches to address VMT, including Transportation Demand Management (TDM) strategies, transit subsidies, bike and pedestrian infrastructure improvements, and thoughtful land use decisions. Ultimately, everything seems to converge on the principles of walkability and accessibility, with the vision of creating vibrant, sustainable communities where driving less is not only feasible but also desirable. Join us as we explore the multifaceted world of VMT and its implications for the future of transportation and urban development.

Welcome back to Urban Planning Is Not Boring! In today's episode, we delve into the concept of third places – those vital social hubs that bridge the gap between our homes (first places) and workplaces (second places). Join us as we uncover why third places are essential to fostering vibrant, connected communities. American sociologist Ray Oldenburg introduced the notion of third places as crucial to democracy and social cohesion in this 1989 book "The Great Good Place".  Despite the allure of digital connectivity, research indicates that physical third places offer unique benefits. From promoting informal social interaction to strengthening productivity, these spaces play a pivotal role in shaping our collective well-being. However, several impacts to the accessibility and allure of third places, including urban sprawl,  technological advancements, and the COVID-19 pandemic, have created a decline in traditional third places. We examine what defines a third place – its atmosphere, accessibility, and sense of community – and discuss strategies urban planners can implement to revitalize these vital spaces. From reimagining public spaces to fostering mixed-use developments, city planning efforts are adapting to prioritize the creation of third places. If you've been on TikTok or Reels lately, you've probably seen the rise of third places into mainstream media, thanks to creators like @signedbritt. The discussion on third places gives a name to the phenomenon that many people have experienced, such as after graduating college and realizing how walkable and accessible many amenities are on a college campus.  Join us as we navigate the past, present, and future of third places, and discover why these social sanctuaries are key to fostering social connections.  Sources: Protecting the “Third Place:” The Pandemic’s Impact on Commercial Corridors and How to Support Them Third places, true citizen spaces Do Yourself a Favor and Go Find a ‘Third Place’ “Third places” as community builders    

Welcome back to Urban Planning is Not Boring! In this episode, Nat and Sam sit down with representatives from the American Planning Association (APA) Inland Empire Section to dive into the excitement surrounding the upcoming APA California Conference in Riverside from September 28th through October 1st. Discover the purpose and vision behind APA and its Inland Empire Section, explore the initiatives of the Diversity Division, and learn how the Young and Emerging Planners Group is shaping the future of urban planning. Join us as we unravel the details of the APA California Conference - the theme, dates, and location - and explore how this year's conference aligns with the pressing challenges and opportunities faced by planners today. Delve into the urban planning trends and history of the Inland Empire, and gain insights into the strategies employed to encourage diverse participation in the call for abstracts. Our guests share how inclusivity is prioritized in the selection process. Get a sneak peek into the conference atmosphere, as we discuss memorable sessions from previous conferences and how APA Inland Empire fosters collaboration and networking opportunities for attendees, speakers, and exhibitors. We'll also be spreading the word about the call for sessions and registration, so if you're passionate about planning or have a story to share, this episode is for you! Mark your calendars, stay informed, and be part of this vibrant planning community. Tune in to discover what's in store at the APA California Conference and learn the best ways to stay updated on APA IE and California events. Episode Information APA California 2024 Conference APA California 2024 Call for Proposals About Emily Elliot - Emily is a planning consultant based in Redlands, California and focuses her work within the Inland Empire. With a background in both the public and private sectors, she currently leads the newly minted Community Planning practice for MNS Engineers. A first-generation college graduate, she earned an associate degree from Palomar Community College, a bachelor’s degree in Geography from San Diego State University, and a Master of Urban and Regional Planning from CalPoly Pomona which she followed with AICP certification. Emily volunteers her time to the American Planning Association as Director of the Inland Empire Section and co-chair of the 2024 state conference host committee, and as a Community and Route Steward for Bikepacking Roots, a non-profit that supports and advances bikepacking, the growth of a diverse bikepacking community, and access to and the conservation of public lands. About Ebony J. McGee Andersen - Ebony J. McGee Andersen is the founder and Director of ejma Planning + Development, Inc.; a boutique planning firm specializing in commercial and industrial project management. She is an experienced Urban and Regional Planner with a background in natural resource development, including oil and gas and surface mining entitlement, CEQA and regulatory compliance. Ebony has a bachelor’s degree in political science and African/African American Studies from the University of California, Davis and a Masters Degree in Urban and Regional Planning from California State Polytechnic University, Pomona. About Tony Lopez - Tony is an embedded urban planner based in Southern California where he is a product of the California Community College and Public University systems. He earned an associate degree in behavioral science from Mount San Antonio College and a bachelor’s degree in urban and Regional Planning from Cal Poly Pomona. Looking to gain a global lens, Tony sought out his master’s deg...

Happy New Year! Welcome back to Urban Planning is Not Boring! We are back from our break with a very exciting episode! In this joint episode, the Four Degrees to the Streets and Urban Planning is Not Boring podcasts come together to discuss Transit-Oriented Development (TOD). Hosts Nimo, Jas, Sam, and Nat use their expertise and experience living in TODs as a backdrop to give a coast-to-coast perspective on this complex subject. Press play to hear: TOD defined as a mixed-use community that encourages people to live near transit services and decrease their dependence on driving and its key components and history Examples of TOD programs including BART (Bay Area Rapid Transit), NJ Transit, the City of Chicago's ETOD (equitable transit-oriented development) plan, and the Federal Transit Administration TOD Pilot Program Considerations for the future of TOD  Learn more about Four Degrees to the Streets, a podcast designed to empower anyone curious about places and spaces and tune in every other Tuesday. Follow Four Degrees to the Streets on X and Instagram @the4degreespod, or send them an email to connect!   Resources Histories of Transit-Oriented Development: Perspectives on the Development of the TOD Concept BART TOD  Millbrae BART TOD Elevated Chicago ETOD | Equitable Transit-Oriented Development Pennrose Gives Back to Veterans Through Housing Dover officials open new 70-unit affordable family and veterans housing in downtown FTA FY 2023 Competitive Funding Opportunity: Pilot Program for Transit-Oriented Development TOD Planning Study (2015-2021) Projects

Welcome back to Urban Planning is Not Boring! In this episode, we delve into the bipartisan alliance formed to address a growing crisis: homelessness. Inspired by a recent New York Times article titled "In Rare Alliance, Democrats and Republicans Seek Legal Power to Clear Homeless Camps," we explore the pressing issue of homelessness in the United States and the legal complexities surrounding the removal of homeless encampments from public spaces. Join us as we discuss the legal challenge presented by the 2018 "Boise decision," and the motivations behind politicians from diverse backgrounds urging the Supreme Court to reevaluate the ruling. We'll also hear perspectives from homeless rights advocates who emphasize the importance of comprehensive solutions to address homelessness. The outcome of this legal challenge could have significant implications for how the nation tackles this ongoing issue. 

Welcome back to "Urban Planning is Not Boring." In this special episode, we're revisiting an essential topic that we recently covered in our class for Abundant Housing LA: "Introduction to Affordable Housing." Affordable housing is a pressing issue in cities worldwide, and it's crucial to understand the fundamentals of this complex and multifaceted subject. Whether you're an urban planning enthusiast, a housing advocate, or someone seeking to make sense of the challenges and solutions in your community, this episode is for you. Join us as we dive into the core concepts of affordable housing, unpacking the key terminology, policies, and strategies that underpin this critical field. We'll provide a concise overview of the various approaches to affordability, from subsidized housing to inclusionary zoning, and explore the impacts of the housing crisis on communities and individuals. Whether you're new to the subject or looking to expand your knowledge, AHLA's "Below Market Housing Blueprint" course is your gateway to a critical conversation about housing affordability, accessibility, and the path to creating more inclusive and equitable cities. Our goal is to demystify affordable housing, making it accessible and understandable for everyone. We'll address common misconceptions, share real-world examples, and discuss the importance of equitable housing solutions. Enroll today in Abundant Housing LA's Below Market Blueprint Course. "Our new 6-week course covers affordable housing's journey through LA County's processes like housing elements and CEQA. Kicking off the course are hosts of the Urban Planning is Not Boring podcast to give you a primer on affordable housing and its nuances!"This course is a $450 value! Use the coupon code RENT75 to pay only $112.50! Enroll anytime! Live sessions are recorded and accessible for a year!If cost is a barrier, email Joshua@abundanthousingla.org for a scholarship! About Abundant Housing LA

Cities across the United States have opted to implement policy for community development gradually, rather than undergoing expedited construction and housing reform. Brooklyn Heights, Charleston, Savannah, New Orleans, and Austin are just a few names you might recognize of cities undertaking something called incremental housing development. The term is used to describe when cities are built, as the name suggests, in small increments. It balances the ever-changing demands of modern urban living with financial efficiency, but is it the approach that urban planners have been looking for? Today, we are discussing incremental development using Austin, Texas as a case study. Cities in the US like Austin have taken this strategy to improve housing in their community. The city council of Austin earlier this summer voted to halve the minimum lot size requirement in areas zoned for single-family homes, a law that made it difficult for planners to build row houses, townhomes, or tri- and four-flexes. The population of Austin is skyrocketing, and Councilmember Leslie Pool, the drafter of the resolution, believes this step is the early stage of incremental housing development for the city toward a better future for families of all incomes. And we make a very special announcement! We will be teaching the first seminar course of the Abundant Housing LA Pro-Housing Leadership Certification Course! The course will focus on Affordable Housing Development, and we are honored to have the opportunity to take part in this course. Check it out!! Sources: Victory in Austin: City Council Votes for Incremental Housing Development

Welcome to another episode of Urban Planning is Not Boring. Today, we have the privilege of exploring the world of community engagement, design, and planning with some remarkable guests from co:census. They're here to discuss an exciting new product, civicX, which promises to transform public feedback into meaningful insights in real-time. Joining us are three experts from co:census: Autumn Beaudoin, Ethics & Research Design Lead Nicole Schwartz, Software Engineer Jovanny Tovar, Product Marketing Manager Co:census is known for its commitment to challenging the status quo of design, and we delve into the core values that drive their work. We explore how intentional engagement with underrepresented communities is a cornerstone of their approach, and why it's indispensable in the realm of design and planning. The spotlight then shifts to civicX, co:census' innovative new product. We discover the inspiration behind its development and learn how it facilitates real-time gathering of insights from the voices that matter most. The conversation touches on the critical concept that sample sizes alone don't necessarily represent the diverse communities we aim to engage with. Our guests provide valuable insights into the potential outcomes for organizations that choose to use civicX and explore how incorporating civicX can significantly enhance the quality and inclusivity of projects and initiatives. Join us for a dynamic conversation that promises to shed light on the transformative potential of civicX and the future of community-driven design and planning. About co:census and civicX co:census is a full-service solution to transform public feedback from meetings, surveys, and conversations into Insights and Reports. civicX is a new co:census solution that challenges the status quo of the historical community engagement framework. civicX completely reimagines outreach by focusing on diversity, equity, and representation. Have an upcoming project? Speak to the co:census team and easily access their support. civicX alpha will be available to a limited number of users. Sign up here for our waitlist to be among the first to try this new solution from co:census. About Autumn Beaudoin (they/them) Autumn is an ethicist, researcher and strategist with design research, economics, and behavioral science backgrounds. Using this intersection of skills and with experience on government teams, they are on a mission to overhaul economic inequality and racial injustices by putting people at the center of localized systemic change. About Nicole Schwartz (they/them) Nicole combines practices of research, code, and art to foster relationships with technology that are life affirming and sustainable. Their approach to designing and developing technology is rooted in harm reduction practices that center the needs of people most directly targeted and underserved by the capitalist interests of the wider tech industry. About Jovanny Tovar Joining the call today is Jovanny, a pivotal figure at co:census, where he spearheads product marketing initiatives that bridge the gap between technology and its users. With a keen understanding of market dynamics and an innate ability to distill complex tech concepts into relatable narratives, Jovanny is at the forefront of crafting strategies that resonate. Beyond the confines of his role, he's an avid tech enthusiast with a penchant for innova...

Welcome to another episode of Urban Planning is Not Boring. Today, we're diving deep into zoning reform and its implications for our cities. We're thrilled to have special guests from the Urban Land Institute (ULI) with us to discuss their latest groundbreaking report titled "Reshaping the City: Zoning for a More Equitable, Resilient, and Sustainable Future." For those interested, you can find a link to the report further down in the episode description. Joining us are two ULI experts who played pivotal roles in crafting this report: Lian Plass, Senior Manager at ULI's Urban Resilience Program Ben Forman, Senior Associate at ULI's Centers and Initiatives We begin by demystifying zoning reform for those who might not be familiar with it, offering a concise definition and examples of its significance in shaping urban landscapes. Our discussion then delves into the barriers that cities face when attempting to implement zoning changes. Lian and Ben shed light on the complexities and challenges involved in reshaping zoning codes to address pressing issues like housing crises and carbon emissions reduction. The conversation turns to the ever-persistent "Not In My Backyard" (NIMBY) concerns that often arise during discussions of increased housing stock and inclusionary zoning policies. Our guests provide insights into how planners can effectively engage with these concerns while championing zoning reforms. Urban mobility is another crucial aspect of city planning, and our guests discuss how the public and private sectors can collaborate to create transportation systems that reduce car reliance and improve urban mobility. Climate change is an urgent concern, and we explore the current land use policies adopted by cities to combat its threats. Our guests share examples of these policies and assess their effectiveness. Lastly, we shift our focus to parks and green spaces, discussing how planners can ensure communities have ample access to green spaces. Join us for this thought-provoking conversation as we unravel the complexities and opportunities in zoning reform, urban mobility, climate action, and community inclusivity. It's a podcast episode packed with insights for planners, policymakers, and anyone passionate about the future of our cities. Resource Links Reshaping the City: Zoning for a More Equitable, Resilient, and Sustainable Future

Welcome back to Urban Planning is Not Boring, the podcast that delves into the dynamic interplay between architecture and planning. In this episode, we have the pleasure of speaking with Shiva Ghomi, Director of Planning and Community Development at Aufgang, an esteemed architecture and planning firm. Shiva's unique background as both an architect and urban planner lends a distinctive perspective to our conversation. Shiva begins by sharing insights into her role at Aufgang, where she wears the hat of a planner in a predominantly architectural environment. As the sole planner at the firm, Shiva's multi-faceted background enriches her approach to projects, leading to a holistic understanding of the built environment. Delving into the relationship between architecture and planning, we explore how these interconnected disciplines shape the urban landscape. Shiva offers insights into the challenges and synergies of integrating architectural visions with broader urban planning goals. From her experience, she shares how finding alignment between these aspects leads to vibrant and cohesive urban spaces. She provides a window into how sustainable design principles seamlessly merge with architectural and community development projects, creating environments that thrive in the face of change. Looking forward, Shiva reflects on the evolving landscape of architecture and planning. She envisions a pivotal role for professionals with expertise in both areas, highlighting the importance of collaboration between architects and planners in tackling modern urban challenges. For more information about Aufgang, check out their website.   About Shiva Education and Certifications: Bachelor of Architecture Degree, Tehran Azad University South Branch Master’s Degree in Urban Design, Tehran Azad University Science & Research Unit Master’s Degree Architecture and Urban & Regional Planning, New York Institute of Technology Professional Background: Prior to joining Aufgang, Shiva co-founded SPARC—Spatial Art and Construction with offices in Brooklyn and the Netherlands. Shiva has built a career by focusing on affordable housing & responsible neighborhood planning. Of note is that, while with SPARC, Shiva won a contract from the City of NY to reconstruct over 100 single- and two-family coastal homes in New York destroyed by Hurricane Sandy and successfully completed that commission. Position: As Director of Planning and Community Development, Shiva is heavily involved in navigating zoning regulations and leading her team in developing compliant designs to bring projects to successful completion. Personal Life: Shiva has been teaching “Sustainability: History and Practice” course at City Tech (CUNY) since 2018.

Welcome back to Urban Planning is Not Boring, the podcast that delves into the exciting world of urban planning. In this episode, we take a close look at MOVE Culver City, a city-led initiative that envisions reimagining streets as public spaces, prioritizing efficient and safe mobility options for everyone. Join us as we explore the project's goals, controversy, and status. Despite the project's goals to increase safety and sustainable mobility options, there was significant public backlash, leading to the end of the pilot project by a 3-2 vote of city council. As we explore the data showing increased transit, biking, and walking usage in the area, we grapple with the challenge of addressing induced demand and the tension between promoting alternative mobility and accommodating car-centric preferences. Tune in as we navigate the complexities of MOVE Culver City and the broader dichotomy in car-centric California. We discuss the opportunities and challenges of reimagining our streets, creating safer spaces for pedestrians and cyclists, and envisioning a more sustainable future for urban mobility. CORRECTION - This vote was done in April 2023, not August 2023! Sources In Culver City’s street space battle, cars are set to make a comeback Culver City bike lane project axed due to public backlash Washington & Culver Boulevard Tactical Mobility Lane Post-Pilot Report - April 2023

Welcome back to Urban Planning is Not Boring! After our mini 'summer break', we're excited to bring you a special episode titled "Catching up with Nat and Sam." In this episode, your hosts Natalie and Sam reconnect and share their experiences adjusting to post-grad life. Natalie kicks things off by discussing her transition into the working world. She provides insights into her full-time job and the challenges and joys that come with starting a new career in private real estate. From navigating office dynamics to putting theory into practice, Natalie shares her observations and reflections on this exciting new chapter. Meanwhile, Sam takes us on a virtual journey as she recount her recent travels. From French Polynesia to Germany, Sam has been seeing the world this summer. In Stuttgart, Germany, Sam attended the Urban Future Conference as a member of the Young Leaders Programme cohort. In this episode, Sam shares her experiences exploring different urban environments and engaging with fellow planners from around the world. She highlights key takeaways from the conference and how it has shaped their perspective on urban planning. Throughout the episode, Nat and Sam engage in a lively discussion about their respective experiences and how their adventures have influenced their understanding of urban planning beyond the classroom. They also reflect on the importance of continuous learning and professional development in the ever-evolving field of urban planning. So join us for an engaging conversation about the realities of post-grad life and the exciting adventures Nat and Sam have had over the summer.

Welcome to Urban Planning is Not Boring, the podcast that explores the fascinating world of urban design and planning. In this episode, we are thrilled to have Shruti Shankar, the urban design director at Studio One Eleven, a renowned interdisciplinary architecture, interiors, urban planning, and landscape architecture practice based in Long Beach, California. Originally from Chennai, Shruti brings a unique perspective to her work, deeply fascinated by the people and life of cities rather than just the buildings themselves. As a trained architect, she has always been drawn to the larger picture—the organic life that thrives in bustling metropolises like Mumbai and Los Angeles, with a keen focus on accessibility, universality, and community building. During this conversation, we delve into Shruti's journey, discussing her upbringing in Chennai and how it shaped her passion for urban planning. We explore her role as an urban design director at Studio One Eleven, known for their collaborative approach and commitment to community building and neighborhood development. Shruti shares her insights on the importance of sustainability and resilience in urban design, drawing from her experiences as a Fullbright Fellow and a certified eco districts planner. From her rise in the field to her thought-provoking ideas on building more inclusive and sustainable urban environments, Shruti's expertise shines through in this engaging conversation. Join us for an inspiring and informative episode as we explore the power of urban planning to shape equitable cities with Shruti Shankar, urban design director at Studio One Eleven, on Urban Planning is Not Boring. ---------- About Shruti Shruti Shankar is the Urban Design Director at Studio One Eleven with an interdisciplinary background in Urban Design, Architecture and Sustainability. She brings over a decade of project experience in the USA and internationally to her work. She has lead and worked on a variety of project types and scales, from placemaking, tactical urbanism and streetscape improvement projects, to urban design, community visioning and strategic planning. Shruti’s work focuses on creating sustainable and vibrant urban places through people-focused design, equitable planning methods, and collaborative city-building.  Some of her award-winning projects include Station Area Plans for cities along Metro’s proposed West Santa Ana Branch Transit Corridor, and the Other-to-Residential Toolkit produced for the Southern California Association of Governments to address the need to produce more housing in Southern California cities. Shruti was born and raised in Chennai, India, and earned her Master’s in Urban Design from Washington University in St. Louis on a Fulbright-Nehru Fellowship for Leadership Development, following her Bachelors’ degree in Architecture from Anna University in Chennai. She is an AICP Certified Planner and a LEED Accredited Professional for Neighborhood Development. Studio One Eleven Shruti's Studio One Eleven Profile Shruti's LinkedIn

Welcome to Urban Planning is Not Boring, the podcast that explores the fascinating world of urban planning. In this episode, join your hosts Sam and Nat as they dive into a crucial concept in housing production: filtering. They explore why it is essential to produce housing at every income level, not solely focusing on affordable housing. Sam and Nat discuss the mechanics of filtering, which refers to the natural process of housing becoming more affordable over time as newer, higher-cost units are built and older units become more affordable. They examine the benefits of maintaining a diverse mix of housing options in terms of income levels, including fostering social and economic diversity within neighborhoods. Throughout the episode, Sam and Nat delve into the potential consequences of exclusively prioritizing affordable housing production, such as concentrating poverty and limiting housing choices for individuals across different income brackets. They emphasize the importance of striking a balance between affordable housing and market-rate housing, highlighting the role of urban planning in creating inclusive communities. Tune in to this thought-provoking episode of Urban Planning is Not Boring as Sam and Nat shed light on the concept of filtering and explain why a holistic approach to housing production is crucial for vibrant and sustainable cities. Sources: Everything you need to know about the affordable housing debate How Filtering Increases Housing Affordability

Welcome back to Urban Planning is Not Boring, the podcast that explores the fascinating world of urban planning. In this episode, we are joined by Maria Patiño Gutierrez, Director of Policy and Research at Strategic Actions for a Just Economy (SAJE), a non-profit organization based in Los Angeles, California that works to build power and community leadership to create equitable policies and systems that benefit working-class communities of color. SAJE's work focuses on housing justice, equitable development, and community organizing, and they have been at the forefront of many important campaigns and initiatives in the LA area. We discuss SAJE's approach to community organizing and advocacy, including their use of popular education and leadership development to build power among marginalized communities. We also delve into some of the challenges and successes that SAJE has experienced in their work, including their efforts to fight against gentrification and displacement in the rapidly-changing LA landscape. Join us for an inspiring conversation about the importance of community-led organizing and the role of non-profits in shaping the future of our cities. SAJE Website Donate to SAJE! Instagram Twitter Facebook Fareless Report: https://www.saje.net/the-road-to-equity-the-case-for-fareless-transit-in-los-angeles/ The SAJE Blog: https://www.saje.net/news/blog/   Other coalitions UNIDAD (United Neighbors In Defense Against Displacement)-LA People's Plan Public Land Campaign ACT-LA United to House LA