Upzoned

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 The hosts explore outdated exclusionary laws and the necessity for collaborative planning.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.

California faces a homeowners insurance crisis as rising wildfires lead major insurers to drop coverage in high-risk areas. The hosts discuss the strain on government-run insurance programs and their potential to provide equitable solutions. They explore how climate change impacts insurance models and the emotional toll of property loss. Insights into the financial burdens on homeowners, evolving building regulations, and personal reflections on resilience add depth to the conversation.

Kevin Klinkenberg, an urban designer and executive director of Midtown KC Now, dives into the challenges younger generations face in achieving a middle-class lifestyle. He examines rising housing costs, credential inflation, and the ongoing impact of public policy on affordability. The conversation highlights innovative solutions like shared living and accessory dwelling units, while reflecting on a shifting perspective of the American Dream. Klinkenberg also discusses the evolving landscape of higher education, emphasizing the need for adaptation in response to modern demands.

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.

Canadian cities face a pressing need for 3.5 million housing units by 2030, creating a challenge to balance urban development with tree preservation. The discussion highlights the emotional connection communities have with trees and critiques the shortsighted removal of mature trees during redevelopment. Innovative solutions, like tree relocation, are proposed to maintain urban greenery. Additionally, the conversation delves into the essential role trees play in urban aesthetics, stormwater management, and enhancing property values.

Andrew Ganahl, managing partner at AND Real Estate, dives into the benefits of townhouse developments in urban areas, particularly Kansas City. He discusses townhouses as a new American dream, striking a balance between affordability and community needs. The conversation highlights unique challenges like zoning regulations and outdated infrastructure that affect costs. Ganahl also shares insights on blending different housing types and the evolving preferences for urban living, suggesting townhouses could be key to addressing housing shortages.

In this engaging discussion, Norm Van Eeden Petersman, Director of Membership and Development at Strong Towns, shares insights on the resurgence of corner stores in mixed-use neighborhoods post-COVID-19. He highlights the vital role these small businesses play in local economies, fostering community connections. Norm also emphasizes the importance of adapting zoning regulations to support these storefronts and offers tips for advocating with local governments. Discover the transformative potential of corner stores in revitalizing urban spaces!

The collapse of a Florida condo has sparked major safety regulations, revealing a hidden backlog of maintenance costs for many owners. The hosts discuss the financial strain this has caused and how it exemplifies a larger Growth Ponzi Scheme impacting communities. They highlight the emotional toll on residents and the urgent need for thoughtful urban planning. In a lighter twist, they touch on fascinating topics like the search for extraterrestrial life and the complexities of personal psychology, showcasing a blend of serious and whimsical discussions.