At a time when modern cities across the globe are investing in healthy transit alternatives like cycling, the traditional rickshaw, a dominant form of transportation in Bangladesh, is now being banned in Dhaka for being "slow" and "inhuman." We agree, this ban is "wrong-minded modernization." Especially as we see a rise in popularity of the … Read more

A new Florida HOA proposal is threatening to ban children from playing outside – in their own neighborhood. This got us thinking about the importance of shared space and its impact on the health of kids and communities. There are lots of design solutions that could be implemented to benefit the neighborhood as a whole … Read more

Cities and regions across the world are launching ambitious transportation plans all in the name of sustainability. The EU's new proposal, Roadmap to a Single European Transport Area, aims to significantly reduce greenhouse gas emissions in the transit and transport sectors by 2050. The plan is ambitious but not flashy— it promises a shining new … Read more

Every community wants to be considered the “most livable,” a title that can attract new business and investments, boost local economies and real estate markets, and foster community involvement and pride. Now, everyone from the Economist to Forbes.com seems to be getting in on the game of ranking cities for livability. The Philips Livable Cities … Read more

The concept of designing cities that meet the social, emotional, intellectual and physical needs of residents of all ages is one that IMCL has been advocating for years. Several new initiatives are underway to address the needs of some of a city's most vulnerable residents— children.  These initiatives present the perfect opportunity to talk about … Read more

In his recent book, Harmony: A New Way of Looking at Our World, HRH The Prince of Wales presents an eloquent and impassioned call for a Sustainability Revolution. As president of the Foundation for the Built Environment, the Prince emphasizes the importance of a holistic vision for designing and planning sustainable, livable cities that foster … Read more

The principles of True Urbanism are a key piece of planning for livable communities. While these characteristics are ideal for all ages, they are essential for the health and well-being of aging populations. On his blog, Phil’s Adventures in Elderburbia, Phil Stafford discusses the way that policy, planning, and design can impact aging generations. As … Read more

The principles of livable communities and True Urbanism include an emphasis on mixed use, walkability, accessibility, and community open space. They are benefits and quality-of-life conveniences for all ages but they are essential to the health and well-being of elderly populations. In his blog "Phil's Adventures in Elderburbia," Phil Stafford explores the challenges and solutions … Read more

Despite the (likely underestimated) price tag, concerns over budget shortfalls, and the emphasis on public transit, high-speed rail is receiving bipartisan support in Congress and at the state level. At a time when gas prices are set to reach $5 per gallon, you’d hope that common sense and the desire for energy independence would make … Read more