Walkable Neighborhoods

No Sprawl Sign on Farm Outside Yellow Springs, OH

If you are in a fiesty mood and want a little more fuel for the fire, check out this article by GOOD about how urban sprawl is unhealthy and the way we measure success.

I agree with the article that using the traditional level of service to measure success is a mistake.  We should be designing for the pedestrian as the most vulnerable user of our roadways.

How do we do it?  Some think that when the baby boomer generation fully retires, there will be a shift in philosophy and thinking.  I’m not sure that is going to make a difference.  There are too many young planners and designers that are getting sucked in and being molded to the traditional way of thinking.  These youngsters are going to be the old grey hairs someday and may not know any different.

I think the best way is to continue to have your voice heard.  Speak out at public meetings, write your local elected officials, participate in MPO committees, actually send in public comment when it’s requested, work with the designers instead of taking an ‘us’ vs ‘them’ approach.

Sounds easy, doesn’t it?  It’s not.  It takes patience, endurance, good timing and a little bit of luck.

Photo By: MoBikeFed

First Lady, Michele Obama, is again signing the praises of walking and biking to school.  She sees it as an opportunity for teaches, students and parents to get a little physical activity and a way to reduce the obesity epidemic that is sweeping the US.  The goal is to get people active for 60 minutes per day.  There is a lot of information at WalkingSchoolbus.org

The key to the walking school bus success lies in convincing the parents that little Johnny and Susie will be safe.  Personally, I think the school bus is one of the toughest places for kids.  The amount of bullying and teasing that takes place and that often goes undetected has been the subject of many studies.  I’d rather take my chances walking. I think if more parents got out and really experienced what it felt like to walk to school, they would begin to push their elected officials for better infrastructure and connectivity.  We need to start designing and re-designing our roadways and communities from the pedestrian perspective, not the automobile.

Speaking of design, New York City’s Mayor Bloomberg announced two pieces of legislation (still awaiting City Council approval) that focus on promoting the use of stairs in public buildings and allowing stairways to remain open so that people could easily take the shorter trips by foot instead of elevator.  I think this speaks volumes to the severity of the obesity epidemic.  Arguably one of the most walkable cities in the world, where people are on the streets and sidewalks 24 hours a day is still affected by physical inactivity.

Photo By: US Department of Labor

On July 2nd, Anthony Foxx was sworn in as the new Secretary of Transportation under President Obama.  Prior to taking the reins at USDOT, Foxx was the Mayor of Charlotte, NC.  He led some significant projects in Charlotte including expanding the airport and getting another loop road built.  For the cyclist or pedestrian, the most notable was the extension of the light rail line.

Let’s see how’s he’s done in his first 15 days.  A mini report card if you will.

Foxx has said many times that he will focus on safety and efficiency.

If this were like school, the chances of having a big test in the first 15 days would be slim.  Foxx had to get his feet wet with the plane crash in San Francisco.  Not only did it affect transportation, there was the inappropriateness of the intern and the names of the airline crew members.  An unfortunate event but the crash provides some credibility on the need to focus on safety.

Safety:  Check

He has received continued support from the American Trucking Associations.  Hey, get support early and often.

Highways/large trucks:  Check

He has announced a $421 Million loan to expand SR 91 in California under the Transportation Infrastructure Finance Innovation Act (TIFIA).  The claim is that the expansion will reduce congestion and improve the local economy.   The people of southern California get tolls for the next 50 years.  Indirectly, if more cars can travel on a freeway, there may be less vehicles on the local roads.  This could reduce bicycle and pedestrian conflicts and improve the quality of life.  It’s a stretch so we’ll give partial credit.

Highways:  Check

Bicycle/Pedestrian Safety:  Quarter of a check

Quality of life for surrounding neighborhoods:  Quarter of a check

He announced $1M in grants for US veterans and military families to receive training for transportation related jobs.  These grants went to 6 colleges throughout the nation.  It seems that most of the training is for motor carrier type positions.  Human scale, walkable neighborhood type projects will not likely see any benefits.

Highways/large trucks:  Check

Supporting our veterans:  Check

You have to click here for bicycle and pedestrian specific projects.  You know, those projects that aren’t always flashy, often aren’t the subject matter of great press releases but undoubtedly improve our communities?  Zilch.

Bicycle/Pedestrian:  N/A

If I had to assign a letter grade to all of this, it would be a ” B”.  Foxx is doing well but highways are only one piece of the transportation puzzle (albeit a large piece).  I am little concerned that walking and biking can easily get lost in the ‘infrastructure efficiency’ discussions.  My experience with many transportation engineers is that efficiency equals pushing more cars through at a faster speed.  Level of Service often rules the roost when it comes to efficiency.

Let’s be fair.  It’s only been 15 days and the number of issues that Secretary Foxx must face is impossible to quantify.  Maybe we revisit the report card in say 60 days and hopefully there is news on other travel modes that focus on making our communities safer for cyclists and pedestrians.

South Beach Miami Condos

A planned high-rise condo building in Miami will have a valet,  five bays for carshare vehicles, covered bike parking, and may serve as a hub for an upcoming bike share system but will not have a parking garage.  Residents will have to use a nearby City lot.

Would you pay $220,000-$400,000 for a place without a parking place?

Photo By: buba69

When you go to New York City, Chicago,  Boston, Washington D.C. or even Minneapolis you almost expect to see a vast array of transportation choices.  These big cities have the density to support programs like bike share.  They also usually have the staff to dedicate to the program’s success.

Smaller cities often do not have the resources to implement these ‘extra’ programs.  Many are auto-centric and are just trying to survive.  The thought of global competitiveness is often lost to the worry over pension benefits, crumbling infrastructure, and increasing the tax base.

Some small to medium sized cities are realizing that there are huge benefits to providing transportation alternatives.  With bike share programs, residents and visitors now have a low(er)-cost option to driving.  It’s good for the environment, people are getting a little exercise and there are proven economic benefits.

Cities like Madison, WI, Boulder, CO, and Chattanooga, TN have already started their programs.  Places like Columbus, Ohio are expected to roll out their program at the end of July.  Albany, NY, Providence, RI, and the Sacramento Region have studied the feasibility of bike share and just need that extra financial or political push to get started.

It may take some time but bike share programs are catching on and we should expect to see more of them in the future.  They don’t replace the automobile; they simply provide an alternative and reduce the physical stress on our roadways.  Oh, and they are fun and convenient!

By: Phil Roeder

If you are a land-use attorney, a staunch follower of the Supreme Court, or just your average planning geek (like me) then you have heard of the Supreme Court’s decision in the Koontz vs. St. John’s River Water Management District case.  You are comparing it to Nollan and Dolan and throwing around terms like “essential nexus” and “rough proportionality”.  You know that permit denials from municipalities are now subject to a higher level of scrutiny.

If you are really good, you are asking what effect the decision will have on the environmental review process and who will bear the additional costs associated with the higher scrutiny.  You’re wondering if municipalities are going to lose the freedom to have ‘flexible’ zoning in order to avoid litigation.

On the other hand, if you are a developer, municipal planner, or permitting agency that just doesn’t have time to keep up with it all  OR if you hear ‘Nollan’ and think Nolan Ryan or ‘Koontz’ and are looking for the next mass produced paperback, there is an opportunity to get the quick and dirty summary.  The American Planning Association is hosting a webinar on July 17th from 4:00-5:30pm to discuss the case and what it means and how to comply with the Court’s mandate.  If you are involved in land-use decisions or permitting it would be worthwhile to see if your day to day operations are going to be impacted.

It’s a bit pricey, so invite your friends.  Each registration includes unlimited attendees.

What does this have to do with walkable neighborhoods?  A lot.  It’s a major land-use decision and walkability can be affected by these decisions.  The slightest change in mindset,  municipal priority, or funding  can mean the difference between sidewalks being installed or not.  Additional financial burdens are going to have to come out of municipal budgets and some project(s) is going to have to be deferred to balance the books.  As we all know, sidewalks, street trees, trails, and public art are often easy targets.

If you are an AICP and in need of those pesky law Certification Maintenance credits, this webinar has you covered.

By: Payton Chung

Editor’s Note: Apologies to those that received this twice by email. This accidentally posted earlier than intended…

It is no accident that many of America’s richest and most famous celebrities have been snapping up trendy loft properties left, right and center in recent years; after all, loft property with its abundant natural light, high ceilings, city views and extremely spacious feel, affords buyers one of the best and most unique living environments available. If you are looking for new or recently constructed lofts for sale in Chicago so that you and your family can enjoy this style of living then hopefully you will find the following list of currently available lofts both useful and helpful.

Even if some of these lofts come off the market, we’ve included links below to help you find other units in the same development (if they have a website)

The Edge Lofts and Tower, Loft 608, 210 S Des Plaines St, Near West Side, Chicago, IL 60661

For a first time couple/single buyer on a small budget this sunny loft property with 575 sf is a great potential buy with its low price tag of just under $174 K. The building is professionally managed and the location offers some fantastic restaurants and nightlife, particularly in the nearby Greek Town.

Union Lofts, Loft 113, 3500 S Sangamon St, Bridgeport, Chicago, IL 60609

Newly listed on the market and priced at $215 K is this tremendous 6 room loft situated in the Bridgeport area. It has a distinctive urban feel with exposed brick. It has concrete between the floor and the ceiling so it is perfect for any potential buyer who doesn’t want noise from neighbors and to enjoy music, etc at their own volume.

Cinema Lofts, Loft 608, 1635 W Belmont Ave W, Lake View, Chicago, IL 60657

Listed at $269.9 K this stylish loft in the sought after Lake View community area of the North of Chicago has so much to offer, not least a real taste of luxury! With a beautifully fitted granite kitchen that comes complete with a 42 inch espresso cabinetry as well as a doorman and gym access included in the building, this is a fantastic option.

Lakewood Lofts, Loft 4g, 3133 N Lakewood Ave, Lake View, Chicago, IL 60657

For more upmarket buyers the incredible loft newly listed in the Lake View area of the city is an amazing property that boasts 15′ floor-to-ceiling windows, a gigantic private deck and the highest quality fittings/installations available anywhere. It is expensive at an asking price of $685 K, however, this loft is certainly a case of you get what you pay for!

Riverbend Lofts, Loft 312, 2614 N Clybourn Ave, Lincoln Park, Chicago, IL 60614

At the lower end of the market in terms of price (199.9 K) this loft is definitely worth considering for anyone looking for a loft on a budget. It is fairly spacious (1050 sf ) for a loft in this price range and has an excellent average ceiling height of 13 ft.

Loft 1w, 319 W Erie St, Near North – Old Town, Chicago, IL 60654

If you are looking to be blown away by an exceptional loft property that would make you the envy of all home owners across the whole of Chicago then this is one you have to see. It sits at the very top of the price scale at 1199 K and has its own range of rare luxuries including a theater room and a sauna/steam room. It was designed by the renowned Patrizio Fradiani and is a must-see if you are able to operate at this price level.

Metropolitan Place, Loft 815, 130 S Canal St, Near West Side, Chicago, IL 60606

This larger loft property, also in the Near West Side, offers a good amount of space (1520 sf) at a seriously competitive price ($370 K) considering the quality of the conversion. Key features include granite flooring, a stunning European walk through shower and SS Viking appliances. A tremendous loft for a family or couple looking for extra space in a tremendous metropolitan location.

Sanctuary On Superior, Loft 5, 1658 W Superior St, West Town, Chicago, IL 60622

Situated in the West Town this stunning and completely unique renovated loft, which was once a Historic Church, simply has to be viewed. With vast space (1790 sf) including some ceilings as high as 15 ft plus granite counters, choir gallery moldings and huge rooms this represents a rare opportunity, particularly at its competitive price of $390 K.

Dairy Commons, Loft t, 2828 N Talman Ave, Avondale, Chicago, IL 60618

In the diverse Avondale community area sits this splendid, spacious loft-like town home which is on the market at $199 K. Extremely spacious at 2430 sf, along with nice features like a marble foyer and slate floors, this is very well priced for what’s on offer.

745 Dickens Condos, Loft 1, 745 W Dickens Ave, Lincoln Park, Chicago, IL 60614

Just steps away from the 13 acre Oz Park, this vintage low-rise loft with sensational city views and a wood burning fireplace as the centerpiece in the living-room is on the market at $450 K, newly listed in the first week of July.

Thomas Schoolhouse, Loft d1, 1445 W Belden Ave, Lincoln Park, Chicago, IL 60614

In perfect move-in condition with fresh coats of paint on the wall this terrific property, set over 3 floors, is perfect for anyone looking to move in soon. At $370 K, with $34 K already taken off the asking price, it is seriously good value for any family looking to get a high-class, sophisticated loft without paying over the odds.

Wabash Flats, Loft 301, 1243 S Wabash Ave, Loop, Chicago, IL 60605

For real traditional loft living, this great property in the South Loop area of the city is hard to beat! Priced at $329 K with 14′ timber ceilings, a beautiful kitchen in maple colors and its own private balcony with superb city views, it is definitely worth checking out.

565 Quincy, Loft 1207, 565 W Quincy St, Loop, Chicago, IL 60661

This high-rise loft apartment (7+ floors) provides spectacular views from its huge windows. Only on the market for 2 weeks as of the start of July this is likely to be snapped up fast. Has tremendous facilities within the building including a theater, bowling lanes and ping-pong. Priced at $339.9 K for 1100 sf, this is good value for the quality of loft on offer.

Museum Park Lofts, Loft 1213, 125 E 13Th St, Near South Side, Chicago, IL 60605

Newly listed at $415 K, this stunning museum park loft with its incredible vistas of the city and clean, stylish interior is one of the best on the market. At 1312 sf, there is plenty of space for living and huge amount of natural light coming in from the large well-placed windows.

If anyone has more lofts to add, let us know in the comments below so we can update this post.

By: Urban Land Institute

Wouldn’t it be nice to hang out here with these folks on The High Line in New York? I believe this was an old railway converted to a linear park running through the city. Absolutely amazing!

By: Sidewalk Sam

I’m not sure, do you think this is ADA compliant??

I’ve seen some pretty bad examples of telephone poles in the middle of sidewalks, but I think this one takes the cake! According to the photographer, this was taken in Louisville, Kentucky. I certainly hope this has been fixed by now.