Welcome back to "Urban Planning is Not Boring"!
We'll examine the historical context of downtown "ghost towns" and how this phenomenon is not entirely new but rather a cyclical pattern in urban development. From white flight to suburban sprawl, we'll trace the trajectory of downtowns over the last few decades, from decline to revival and now to uncertainty.
The COVID-19 pandemic accelerated existing trends and brought about unprecedented challenges. With remote work becoming the norm and downtown office spaces sitting empty, downtowns are grappling with an existential crisis. Yet, amidst the uncertainty, there lies an opportunity for reimagining and revitalizing our urban cores.
We'll discuss the findings of the Brookings research project and delve into strategies proposed by urban planners and local jurisdictions for reinvigorating downtowns. From inclusive workforce development to placemaking initiatives, we'll explore innovative approaches to breathe new life into our city centers.
Join us as we rethink the future of downtowns and navigate the path forward in reshaping urban cores post-COVID.
Sources:
To recover from COVID-19, downtowns must adapt
Breaking the ‘urban doom loop’: The future of downtowns is shared prosperity
Get to know your not so boring podcast hosts Sam and Natalie as they dive into their educational backgrounds, interests, and what led them...
Sam and Nat provided you with some historical information regarding freeway development and eminent domain in the last episode. Today they are bringing you...
Welcome back to Urban Planning is Not Boring, the podcast that delves into the dynamic interplay between architecture and planning. In this episode, we...