Sam and Nat sit down with their former classmate, Alex Sarno, who shares his experiences from both undergrad and graduate school. He also shares his experiences in consulting and how he prepared himself for a career in urban planning. Listen to hear more!

Life after USC with Alex Sarno

Passionate about climate change mitigation, finding equitable solutions to the housing crisis, and more, Sam Ellman and Natalie Ikhrata dive into various topics related to the field of urban planning that are anything but boring!

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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

Reimagining Downtowns in a Post-Pandemic World

Welcome back to Urban Planning is Not Boring! In this episode, we dive into an acronym many of you are likely familiar with, VMT. We start by breaking down the concept of VMT - vehicle miles traveled - which essentially measures the total distance traveled by vehicles, typically on a daily basis. To illustrate, imagine driving 20 miles to work, 5 miles to the gym, and 15 miles back home from the gym. That totals to 40 vehicle miles traveled for the day. But why does VMT matter?
We explore the legislative context surrounding VMT, particularly in California where initiatives like SB 743 have revolutionized the way transportation impacts are evaluated for new development projects. Instead of solely focusing on traffic flow and congestion reduction (Level of Service (LOS)), the emphasis has shifted towards reducing VMT to combat issues like greenhouse gas emissions.
But it's not just about legislation; reducing VMT brings a multitude of co-benefits, from mitigating air pollution and water pollution to promoting active lifestyles and improving mental health. We examine various approaches to address VMT, including Transportation Demand Management (TDM) strategies, transit subsidies, bike and pedestrian infrastructure improvements, and thoughtful land use decisions.
Ultimately, everything seems to converge on the principles of walkability and accessibility, with the vision of creating vibrant, sustainable communities where driving less is not only feasible but also desirable. Join us as we explore the multifaceted world of VMT and its implications for the future of transportation and urban development.

VMT 101: Understanding the Basics of Vehicle Miles Traveled

Welcome back to Urban Planning Is Not Boring! In today's episode, we delve into the concept of third places – those vital social hubs that bridge the gap between our homes (first places) and workplaces (second places). Join us as we uncover why third places are essential to fostering vibrant, connected communities.
American sociologist Ray Oldenburg introduced the notion of third places as crucial to democracy and social cohesion in this 1989 book "The Great Good Place". 
Despite the allure of digital connectivity, research indicates that physical third places offer unique benefits. From promoting informal social interaction to strengthening productivity, these spaces play a pivotal role in shaping our collective well-being.
However, several impacts to the accessibility and allure of third places, including urban sprawl,  technological advancements, and the COVID-19 pandemic, have created a decline in traditional third places. We examine what defines a third place – its atmosphere, accessibility, and sense of community – and discuss strategies urban planners can implement to revitalize these vital spaces.
From reimagining public spaces to fostering mixed-use developments, city planning efforts are adapting to prioritize the creation of third places. If you've been on TikTok or Reels lately, you've probably seen the rise of third places into mainstream media, thanks to creators like @signedbritt. The discussion on third places gives a name to the phenomenon that many people have experienced, such as after graduating college and realizing how walkable and accessible many amenities are on a college campus. 
Join us as we navigate the past, present, and future of third places, and discover why these social sanctuaries are key to fostering social connections. 
Sources:

Protecting the “Third Place:” The Pandemic’s Impact on Commercial Corridors and How to Support Them
Third places, true citizen spaces
Do Yourself a Favor and Go Find a ‘Third Place’
“Third places” as community builders

Beyond Home and Work: Exploring the Importance of Third Places

Welcome back to Urban Planning is Not Boring! In this episode, Nat and Sam sit down with representatives from the American Planning Association (APA) Inland Empire Section to dive into the excitement surrounding the upcoming APA California Conference in Riverside from September 28th through October 1st.

Discover the purpose and vision behind APA and its Inland Empire Section, explore the initiatives of the Diversity Division, and learn how the Young and Emerging Planners Group is shaping the future of urban planning.
Join us as we unravel the details of the APA California Conference - the theme, dates, and location - and explore how this year's conference aligns with the pressing challenges and opportunities faced by planners today.
Delve into the urban planning trends and history of the Inland Empire, and gain insights into the strategies employed to encourage diverse participation in the call for abstracts. Our guests share how inclusivity is prioritized in the selection process.
Get a sneak peek into the conference atmosphere, as we discuss memorable sessions from previous conferences and how APA Inland Empire fosters collaboration and networking opportunities for attendees, speakers, and exhibitors.

We'll also be spreading the word about the call for sessions and registration, so if you're passionate about planning or have a story to share, this episode is for you!
Mark your calendars, stay informed, and be part of this vibrant planning community. Tune in to discover what's in store at the APA California Conference and learn the best ways to stay updated on APA IE and California events.
Episode Information
APA California 2024 Conference
APA California 2024 Call for Proposals
About Emily Elliot - Emily is a planning consultant based in Redlands, California and focuses her work within the Inland Empire. With a background in both the public and private sectors, she currently leads the newly minted Community Planning practice for MNS Engineers. A first-generation college graduate, she earned an associate degree from Palomar Community College, a bachelor’s degree in Geography from San Diego State University, and a Master of Urban and Regional Planning from CalPoly Pomona which she followed with AICP certification. Emily volunteers her time to the American Planning Association as Director of the Inland Empire Section and co-chair of the 2024 state conference host committee, and as a Community and Route Steward for Bikepacking Roots, a non-profit that supports and advances bikepacking, the growth of a diverse bikepacking community, and access to and the conservation of public lands.
About Ebony J. McGee Andersen - Ebony J. McGee Andersen is the founder and Director of ejma Planning + Development, Inc.; a boutique planning firm specializing in commercial and industrial project management. She is an experienced Urban and Regional Planner with a background in natural resource development, including oil and gas and surface mining entitlement, CEQA and regulatory compliance. Ebony has a bachelor’s degree in political science and African/African American Studies from the University of California, Davis and a Masters Degree in Urban and Regional Planning from California State Polytechnic University, Pomona.
About Tony Lopez - Tony is an embedded urban planner based in Southern California where he is a product of the California Community College and Public University systems. He earned an associate degree in behavioral science from Mount San Antonio College and a bachelor’s degree in urban and Regional Planning from Cal Poly Pomona. Looking to gain a gl

Spotlight on APA Inland Empire

Happy New Year! Welcome back to Urban Planning is Not Boring! We are back from our break with a very exciting episode! In this joint episode, the Four Degrees to the Streets and Urban Planning is Not Boring podcasts come together to discuss Transit-Oriented Development (TOD). Hosts Nimo, Jas, Sam, and Nat use their expertise and experience living in TODs as a backdrop to give a coast-to-coast perspective on this complex subject. Press play to hear:

TOD defined as a mixed-use community that encourages people to live near transit services and decrease their dependence on driving and its key components and history
Examples of TOD programs including BART (Bay Area Rapid Transit), NJ Transit, the City of Chicago's ETOD (equitable transit-oriented development) plan, and the Federal Transit Administration TOD Pilot Program
Considerations for the future of TOD 

Learn more about Four Degrees to the Streets, a podcast designed to empower anyone curious about places and spaces and tune in every other Tuesday. Follow Four Degrees to the Streets on X and Instagram @the4degreespod, or send them an email to connect!
 
Resources
Histories of Transit-Oriented Development: Perspectives on the Development of the TOD Concept
BART TOD 
Millbrae BART TOD
Elevated Chicago
ETOD | Equitable Transit-Oriented Development
Pennrose Gives Back to Veterans Through Housing
Dover officials open new 70-unit affordable family and veterans housing in downtown
FTA FY 2023 Competitive Funding Opportunity: Pilot Program for Transit-Oriented Development
TOD Planning Study (2015-2021) Projects

Life after USC with Alex Sarno

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