Planning for Regional Competitiveness

MZ Strategies, LLC and the National Association of Regional Councils (NARC) released a new report entitled “Planning for Regional Competitiveness.,” funded by the McKnight Foundation to help inform efforts underway in the greater Minneapolis-St. Paul metropolitan area. The report highlights best practices that strengthen regional economic competitiveness. Building upon lessons learned from the greater Denver, Seattle-Tacoma, and Kansas City metropolitan regions and a national survey of regional planning councils, the report provides recommendations to improve regional economic competitiveness and improve cooperation to grow economies and reduce economic disparities.

January 14, 2013 By: Mariia Zimmerman

Tags: FTA, economic development, MAP-21, economic opportunity, community development, affordable housing, transit

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Transit’s Fresh Start to Comprehensive Place Making

The Federal Transit Administration (FTA) opened 2013 by releasing a set of game-changing documents for transportation and community development. In its newly published New and Small Starts Final Rule and Proposed Policy Guidance, FTA proposes that smart land use and affordable housing be viewed as key components of good transit projects, and good economic development policy.

October 09, 2012 By: Mariia Zimmerman

Tags: planning, MAP-21, demographics, economic opportunity, transit, paratransit, mobility

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The Changing Face of America: Changing the Face of Planning

In thinking about strategies to meet the needs of America’s aging population, we can simultaneously develop strategies to help the next generation. And in doing so, we need to remember that the next generation is much more culturally, racially and ethnically diverse. Finding this sweet spot should be a goal for planners. Are we building communities where people can age in place? Are we building communities where the youth population wants to remain? Are we developing strategies that meet multiple mobility needs and shifting economics? The answers to these questions will undoubtedly need to be tailored to reflect the unique needs of each community.

July 27, 2012 By: Mariia Zimmerman

Tags: Minnesota, Transit, economic opportunity, Twin Cities, Central Corridor, Thrive, Regional Planning

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Twin Cities: A Region Ready to Thrive!

The Twin Cities region is in the midst of a transit renaissance with two rail transit lines in operation, a third under construction and plans well underway for additional bus rapid transit and light rail expansion. The Twin Cities are a region ready to thrive!