In the Reader

If you're anything like me and completely nerd out over transit maps and their design, you'll enjoy this article at The City Fix about Symbolism in the Transit World: Helping You Find Your Way.

Upon moving out to Oregon, I knew that Portland was one of the most livable cities in the country. I did, however, wonder where the kids were. There aren't many, and apparently there are downsides to this in some ways. The Conservative Planner takes a look at how this is common in the top 5 livable cities in the US.

City Limits has a great story about how the Obama Administrations urban policy initiatives are really happening whether you realize it or not.

An interesting look at how planning has become faith-based by "Exorcising the Suburban Dream". I do not agree with very much of what the author suggests other than the "principles" he says are the bylaws of our generation of planners. He criticizes them, but I think they are wonderful! Ha

• Thou shalt build upon thy dwelling a porch of such magnitude that it can serve as a gathering place.
• Thou shalt construct a path of 2 cubits (approximately 4 feet) wide near thy porch for followers to meet and pray that a cul-de-sac shall not influence thy offspring.
• A place for chariots shall be placed upon the buttocks of thy dwelling. Thy chariot must not be nearer to the dwelling than 4 cubits or thee will be smitten.
• Thou shall plant a tree half a cubit from thy curb and in front of thy porch.
• Create a place for gathering no farther than 600 cubits from thy dwelling.
• Thy dwelling shall have Craftsman trim.
• The path to heaven is taken by bicycle, light rail, or walking, not by powered chariot.
• A congregant must dwell in extreme closeness to thy neighbor.

Meanwhile in Florida...

A new governor was sworn in Tuesday morning. Republican bazillionaire, Rick Scott, took the office after a $73 million campaign and a full on $3 million inauguration ceremony followed by a freezing of all new government regulation in order to "be more growth-friendly". This is stalling much needed legislation from being created to manage important environmental things like the St. Johns River water supply.

Also, at this point in the future of Florida's high-speed rail, the recommended approach is the fiscally conservative one. The plan is not perfect as I've said before, but it is meant to be a pilot for the nation, and is something.