NYT Journalist Shares Why America Should Sprawl

Published in 1961, 'The Death and Life of Great American Cities' is a seminal work by Jane Jacobs that critiques the urban planning policies of the 1950s. Jacobs argues against the modernist urban renewal practices that separated uses and led to the decline of city neighborhoods. She advocates for dense, mixed-use development, walkable streets, and the importance of 'eyes on the street' to maintain public order. The book emphasizes the complexity of urban life and the need for planning that prioritizes the needs and experiences of residents. Jacobs uses her own neighborhood, Greenwich Village, as a model for a healthy and vibrant urban environment, contrasting it with the urban renewal projects championed by figures like Robert Moses[2][3][5].

Golden Gates by Conor Dougherty delves into the complexities of the housing crisis in America, with a focus on the San Francisco Bay Area. The book explores the historical and economic factors contributing to the crisis, highlighting the impact on individuals and communities. It also examines potential solutions and the efforts of activists and policymakers to address the issue.