Draft Philadelphia Trail Master Plan released

Philadelphia's City Planning Commission has released a draft of their Trail Master Plan.  The plan provides maps and an inventory of the numerous existing and proposed trails in Philadelphia.  It also outlines best practices in trail building, defines the different types of trails in Philadelphia, and prioritizes the city's trail projects. The creation of the Trail … Continue reading Draft Philadelphia Trail Master Plan released

Image: Chicago Loop Alliance

Call them what you will, open streets/play streets/ciclovias provide valuable opportunities for recreation

As the weather warms up, it's not unusual to see parks and playgrounds crowded with both the young and the young-at-heart.  But technically, these are not the city's only public spaces; there are miles upon miles of public streets.  What if these spaces, too, were available for people to enjoy?  Open streets projects aim to make this happen.  Known … Continue reading Call them what you will, open streets/play streets/ciclovias provide valuable opportunities for recreation

Image: peggydavis66, Team Fezzari

Oklahoma City mayor: “We have to start building this city for people”

When Oklahoma City was ranked the second-fattest city in America in 2009, Mayor Mick Cornett examined the problem and declared that the city's car-oriented design and unfriendly streets were at fault.  Pedestrian-unfriendly design was detracting from the city's livability, which also meant that it contributed to the outmigration of young, intelligent workers - often known … Continue reading Oklahoma City mayor: “We have to start building this city for people”

Photo: Flying Kite Media

Take advantage of Philly parks!

Philadelphia has been acclaimed for its vast network of parks and open space, which provides citizens with access not only to green space and playgrounds, but to a variety of programs, such as farmers' markets, that enhance the quality of life for city residents.  Enhancing and expanding the parks are components of the goals for Greenworks Philadelphia, the city's plan for becoming the most sustainable city in the country.