Upzoned Motivated Reasoning: The Psychology Behind Big Municipal Projects
Dec 4, 2024
Explore the fascinating world of municipal development and the psychology driving big projects. Discover how satellite communities may appear to solve urgent housing needs but can lead to long-term challenges, like maintenance debt. Hear about the intense debates surrounding Ottawa's $1.5 billion infrastructure plan and a $900 million suburban project. Delve into the complexities of forecasting municipal demands and the ethical dilemmas in urban planning, all while enjoying some lighthearted banter about life in Minnesota.
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Engineering Fees
- Chuck Marohn recalls as an engineer, project cost estimates always included future engineering fees.
- Public questioned this, but engineers believed their recommendations weren't influenced by the fees.
Motivated Reasoning in Engineering
- Chuck Marohn realized engineers are motivated to make projects big to avoid undersizing.
- They're less motivated to explore alternatives or consider risks, influenced by project size and payout.
Motivated Self-Interest
- Abby Newsham points out that motivated self-interest exists in both public and private sectors.
- It takes bravery to question assumptions and propose alternatives, especially when money is involved.
