Tag: Urban Development
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The American Singapore: Myth or Reality?
The idea of replicating Singapore’s efficient governance in American cities is an intriguing proposition that stirs various debates among urban planners and policy experts. At the heart of this discussion lies the question: Can American cities truly become ‘American Singapores’? While the ideal of competent local governance is appealing, the practicalities and ethical considerations offer…
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Competent City Governance: The Subtle Art of Efficacious Management
In the contemporary landscape of city management, the concept of competent governance seems to unfurl quite an extraordinary tapestry. It’s not simply about maintaining order and providing basic services; it’s about fostering an environment where communities can thrive economically and socially. Places like Carmel, Indiana, have become poster children for such success, not without their…
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Why Our Roads Are Failing Us: The Perils of Outdated Research and Poor Urban Planning
Despite decades of technological and infrastructural advancements, the safety of U.S. roads remains a contentious and troubling issue. The alarming rise in pedestrian and bicyclist fatalities signals that something is fundamentally wrong with how we approach road design and urban planning. The primary factor behind this failure is reliance on outdated research and misguided priorities…
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The Rise of 5-Over-1 Buildings and Their Impact on Urban Living
In recent years, 5-over-1 buildings, also known as podium buildings, have emerged as a popular architecture style across urban landscapes in the United States. These structures typically consist of five floors of wood construction stacked on a concrete base, offering both residential and commercial spaces. They are celebrated for their cost-effectiveness, efficient use of space,…
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Behind the Illusion: The Dark Side of the Nonprofit Industrial Complex in Urban America
Nonprofit organizations often evoke images of altruism and community-focused efforts, yet a closer examination reveals a murkier reality. In many American cities, particularly those with a robust progressive ethos, the seemingly benevolent world of nonprofits can mask systemic inefficiencies and, at times, outright corruption. This phenomenon — sometimes referred to as the ‘Nonprofit Industrial Complex’…
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The Debate on Single-Stair Egress in Modern Building Design
Recent discussions on the concept of single-stair egress in modern building design have sparked a heated debate among architects, policymakers, and residents alike. The argument revolves around the balance between fire safety regulations and the practicality of implementing single-stair systems in multi-story buildings. While some advocate for the reintroduction of single-stair apartment buildings as a…
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The Hidden Costs of America’s Love for Large Vehicles
The increasing popularity of large vehicles such as SUVs and trucks in the United States is more than just a trend or personal preference—it’s deeply ingrained in the country’s fabric of societal, economic, and even legislative aspects. Over the years, these vehicles have filled the streets, driven not only by consumer choice but also by…
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Why I Don’t Invest in Real Estate
As remote work becomes ubiquitous, it is reshaping not just our work culture but also our living patterns. The traditional model where proximity to one’s workplace dictates residential choice is being challenged. This shift opens up a broader question about the relevance and sustainability of city-centric real estate investments. With more people working from home,…