Upzoned

Today, Abby is joined by Bernice Radle, a small-scale developer and historic building preservationist from Buffalo, New York. They cover two developing stories: First, a new bill was proposed that would give the Buffalo housing court more power to sell or repair buildings taken from absentee or negligent landlords. Second, the Historic Preservation Fund is currently at risk. Bernice and Abby discuss how these changes could affect small-scale developers and historic preservationists. Bernice also explores how these two fields are closely linked and should work together to save urban spaces. ADDITIONAL SHOW NOTES “Proposed bill would give Buffalo housing court greater authority over derelict properties” by Nate Benson, WGRZ (May 2025). “Preservation Under Threat: A Critical Moment for the Historic Preservation Fund” by Preservation Buffalo Niagara, Buffalo Rising (June 2025). See more from Bernice: Strong Towns Neighborhood Evolution Preservation Buffalo Niagara Abby Newsham (X/Twitter). Theme Music by Kemet the Phantom.   This podcast is made possible by Strong Towns members. Click here to learn more about membership, including member-exclusive perks.

Edward Erfurt, Director of Community Action at Strong Towns, offers insights into the emergence of Starbase, a new company town for SpaceX employees in Boca Chica, Texas. They explore the challenges and power dynamics of such a community, drawing parallels to historical mining towns. The conversation highlights the intricacies of local governance under corporate control and the potential for innovation in housing. Erfurt also discusses community engagement strategies and the importance of addressing residents' needs in this unique environment.

California's universities face a staggering $17 billion in deferred maintenance, highlighting a significant funding crisis. The discussion examines shifting generational perspectives between abundance and scarcity and how this affects higher education. Financial pressures are driving universities to balance growing student demands with facility upkeep amidst rising costs. Light moments about gardening and biking add a personal touch, while humor shines through initiatives aimed at improving urban housing readiness.

The conversation dives into President Trump's proposal to privatize Fannie Mae and Freddie Mac, unpacking its potential impact on the housing market. With a focus on the historical context of these entities, the hosts challenge the narrative that homeownership is the ultimate ticket to wealth. They also discuss the contrasting economic experiences of younger generations in today's volatile landscape. Additionally, insights into financial market anomalies and a new toolkit for housing development reform highlight the pressing need for innovative solutions.

Join Edward Erfurt, Director of Community Action at Strong Towns, as he dives into the impact of large supermarkets on food deserts. Discover how policy changes in the 1980s allowed corporate giants to overshadow local grocers, altering neighborhood dynamics. Edward shares grassroots strategies for reviving community access to fresh food, including repurposing fridges for sharing and supporting local markets. Their conversation sheds light on building resilient communities and reclaiming wealth from corporate giants.

Co-hosts Abby Newsham and Chuck Marohn discuss the challenges faced by Victoria, Prince Edward Island, a town in Canada that only has 139 full-time residents. In an attempt to attract new residents, the town has adopted its first five-year development plan. Chuck and Abby talk about how very small towns like Victoria show the absurdities of the Suburban Experiment best — and feel its consequences most keenly. They explore what the future could look like for communities like this and emphasize the importance of embracing the things that make a specific town special instead of trying to copy suburban subdivisions. ADDITIONAL SHOW NOTES “Population growth called 'critical' for the sustainability of Victoria, P.E.I.” by Sara Fraser, CBC News (February 2025). Abby Newsham (X/Twitter). Chuck Marohn (Substack). Theme Music by Kemet the Phantom.

Residents of a neighborhood in Colorado are confronting a $434 million debt incurred by their community’s special taxing district, which was set up by developers to finance the neighborhood’s infrastructure. A group of neighbors are now organizing to take control of the district’s board and try to bring transparency to the financial situation. In today’s episode of Upzoned, Abby is joined by Edward Erfurt, Strong Towns’ chief technical advisor. They discuss how using special taxing districts to fund developments is a common practice, how it leads to snowballing debt, and how difficult it is for residents to manage this kind of situation. ADDITIONAL SHOW NOTES “The largest neighborhood of this Colorado city is $434M in debt. Neighbors are now seeking board control.” by Olivia Young, CBS News (February 2025). This Thursday, February 27, Strong Towns will release a toolkit to help city officials welcome incremental housing development. Learn more here. Become a member to join the launch livestream with experts Alli Thurmond Quinlan (Incremental Development Alliance) and Eric Kronberg (Kronberg Urbanists + Architects). Abby Newsham (X/Twitter). Theme Music by Kemet the Phantom.

Norm Van Eeden Petersman, Director of Movement Building for Strong Towns, dives into the looming shortfall in senior housing as baby boomers age. He explores innovative solutions for diverse living options, including repurposing suburban homes and creating intergenerational communities. The discussion highlights the importance of community-centric designs, like Alzheimer's villages, that prioritize dignity and social interaction. Norm also addresses the broader implications of demographic shifts and the urgent need for affordable housing strategies.

Matt Martin and Andre Vasquez, Chicago aldermen, share their insights on the ambitious Western Avenue corridor study. They discuss the critical need for zoning reform to boost affordable housing and enhance economic vitality. The conversation highlights the importance of community engagement in shaping urban development and tackles challenges like gentrification. They also envision a transformed Western Avenue with mixed-use spaces and improved transit options, aiming to create vibrant and inclusive neighborhoods over the next decade.

Massachusetts is on the brink of taking its cities to court over zoning codes that restrict multifamily housing near transit stations. The ruling highlights the tension between state authority and local zoning practices. There’s a candid discussion about the mismatch between transportation funding and housing needs. The hosts explore outdated exclusionary laws and the necessity for collaborative planning. Plus, a whimsical dinner anecdote adds a touch of humor, showcasing cultural quirks in a serious discussion about governance.