Category Archives: Planning

“10 Benefits of Creating Good Public Spaces”

Posted on September 17, 2012 by Ed Fuhrmann

There is a value beyond the obvious to creating “places that work“. We’ve all seen the results of well-intentioned plans which do not seem to deliver as promised; this includes the uber-controlled world of “Happy Consumerism”, endless cheap energy,  and … Continue reading →

Posted in Economics, Planning | Leave a comment

“The Five C’s of Neighborhood Planning”

Posted on September 4, 2012 by Ed Fuhrmann

As we look for ways to improve of neighborhoods, each with its own strengths and challenges, here is a brief look at some of the common elements found in neighborhoods that work. Examine your own neighborhood… what category of functionality … Continue reading →

Posted in Economics, Planning | Leave a comment

Now coveted: A Walkable, Convenient Place

Posted on August 31, 2012 by Ed Fuhrmann

“Now Coveted: A Walkable, Convenient Place” “Demand for walkable urban space extends beyond city centers to suburbs; why is there an urbanization of the suburbs? Some baby boomers want to sell their large suburban houses and move to a walkable … Continue reading →

Posted in Bicycling, Planning, Walkability | Leave a comment

Oh goody, another “drive-thru”…

Posted on August 28, 2012 by Ed Fuhrmann

Well, it’s probably better than finding out that another business “went under” or left town: Panera Bread Round Lake Beach Drive-Thru Now Open! On Wednesday, November 9, the Panera Bread® Round Lake Beach bakery-café celebrated the opening of their new … Continue reading →

Posted in Bicycling, Planning, Walkability | Leave a comment

Sources: Sprawl Repair Manual

Posted on August 25, 2012 by Ed Fuhrmann

One of the pre-eminent experts in suburban redevelopment, Galina Tachieva is the author of the “Sprawl Repair Manual“: We’ll be using it as one of our main references in the coming months because “Perception is Reality“! One of the aspects of dealing … Continue reading →

Posted in Economics, Planning, Walkability | Leave a comment

The Tragedy of Suburbia…

Posted on August 22, 2012 by Ed Fuhrmann

… can be felt in small-town America. Just sit on a bench in downtown Round Lake Beach for a half-hour some evening… sit and watch. ——————————————————————— James Howard Kunstler calls suburban sprawl “the greatest misallocation of resources the world has … Continue reading →

Posted in Planning, Transit, Walkability | Leave a comment