Pitchfork Economics with Nick Hanauer Why Nothing Works: Who Killed Progress—and How to Bring It Back (with Marc Dunkelman)
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Apr 15, 2025 Mark Dunkelman, a fellow at Brown University and author of 'Why Nothing Works', dives into the reasons behind stagnation in public projects. He discusses the transformation of Seattle’s waterfront and critiques the phenomenon of 'vetocracy' that hampers progress. The conversation covers the struggle between bureaucratic inefficiency and the need for power in progressivism. They examine historical successes and contemporary failures in infrastructure, advocating for more thoughtful governance that balances ideals with practical outcomes.
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Seattle's Waterfront Transformation
- Nick Hanauer and his wife recently visited Seattle's newly renovated waterfront.
- The project, which took over 20 years, replaced a double-decker highway with a park and boulevard.
Civic Achievement vs. Inaction
- Seattle's waterfront revitalization exemplifies a successful civic achievement, despite taking many years.
- This contrasts with the difficulty of executing such projects in other areas.
Penn Station's Plight
- Marc Dunkelman's book, "Why Nothing Works," was inspired by his experience commuting through Penn Station.
- He questioned why modern projects struggle while Robert Moses could execute his, despite public outcry.
