Online Webcast

The FCC adopted new rules at its Oct. 17 meeting that are likely to require changes in the way local governments respond to applications for siting wireless towers, and for adding antennas to, and modifying, existing structures. The rules could necessitate an immediate review and revision of wireless siting ordinances in many communities, and have important implications for the way states and localities deal with siting of wireless facilities in historic districts and environmentally sensitive areas.

This presentation will review some of these changes and outline steps that planners can take to mitigate present and future impacts of the new law. Planners are best trained to synthesize the multi-disciplinary nature of hazard mitigation planning and can be at the forefront of achieving reductions in losses to life and property as well as creating safer communities.

This webinar is designed to help you make the case for implementing the most effective smart growth policies for ensuring that your community has an adequate supply of housing for the continuum of need: from workforce housing to seniors who need help to age in place. We will specifically address inclusionary zoning, community land trusts, accessory dwelling units, and tools for avoiding and overcoming NIMBYism.

“Complete street” is a transportation term that refers to a corridor designed for all modes of transportation. Washington, DC has made national news for its emphasis on the fundamental modes of transportation – walking and biking. It’s also home to one of the most recognizable mass transit systems. So why would the District Department of Transportation propose a scenario that eliminates complete streets?

Drought is becoming an increasingly important issue for planners at the local, regional and state levels. Drought impacts vary by region, but it affects everything from the most obvious -- water supply -- to ecosystems, the built environment, regional economies and human health. Mitigation and adaptation to drought requires attention and collaboration among planners, water engineers and natural resource experts.

Learn how Los Angeles, Atlanta, and Santa Monica used different, yet equally practical, applications of “tactical urbanism” to transform their streets in months, not years. One pilot project involved a transformative streetscape master plan; the other uses “pop-up” demonstrations of a potential “Neighborhood Greenway” design to get residents involved. Hosted by the Urban Design and Preservation Division.

When EPA created the Office of Environmental Justice, it required developing new tools for the purpose of engaging and working with the public, including segments of the public that are underserved. Community planners and other allied professionals may be less familiar with the tools the Office of Environmental Justice has developed overtime to strengthen public involvement; encourage community action for a renewed environment; or advance collaborative environmental problem solving.