Chris Stines is Planetizen's former Editor and the founder of Urban Insight, a leading digital agency. Chris has 25 years of experience in technology consulting and urban planning and has served as a consultant to public sector state, county, and local agencies, Fortune 500 private firms, educational institutions, and nonprofit organizations.
Safest Cities For Driving
Sioux Falls, South Dakota, population 137,000, has been named by Allstate Insurance as the safest city for driving in the nation. Washington D.C. is rated the worst city for driving.
Japan Bans New Suburban Malls
As Japan's population shrinks, the Japanese government bans the development of new shopping malls or amusement centers exceeding 108,000 s.f. in suburban areas to prevent the 'hollowing out' of urban centers.
Historic Architecture Tours Get Trendy
Architectural and home tours focused on historic or neighborhood preservation or gentrifying urban areas are becoming increasingly popular.
The Geographic Evolution of the U.S. Auto Industry
The U.S. automotive industry is one of the nation's oldest modern manufacturing sectors. Despite increasingly making its home in the south, 47% of the nation's motor vehicle employment still resides in three states: Michigan, Indiana and Ohio.
Government Buildings Are Getting Nicer
Security, workforce, and sustainability concerns are causing federal, state and local governments to build and lease Class-A space.