Atlanta is considering the appointment of a night mayor to oversee activities and address issues that occur overnight, focusing not only on nightlife and entertainment but also on the needs of night-shift workers and other nocturnal activities. The concept, which originated in Amsterdam in 2012, has been adopted by various cities worldwide. Atlanta City Councilmember Amir Farokhi proposed the idea, and a feasibility study was approved in October. The night mayor's responsibilities would include ensuring safe transportation and access to public bathrooms at night. Experts like Andreina Seijas emphasize the importance of a holistic approach to night-time governance that includes vulnerable and working populations. Other cities like London, Washington, D.C., and New York City have implemented programs addressing the needs of the night-time community. Atlanta is expected to hire a night mayor in 2022.

Atlanta is confronting its past reliance on convict labor, particularly the leasing of Black individuals, including children, for unpaid labor in inhumane conditions. The Chattahoochee Brick Company, which profited from this practice, produced bricks that were fundamental to the city's construction. Efforts are underway to memorialize the site and acknowledge the contributions of these exploited workers. Environmental activist Donna Stephens and others have successfully halted industrial development on the site, and the city plans to transform it into a park and memorial. The National Center for Civil and Human Rights is also involved in memorialization efforts. The narrative connects to broader discussions on Confederate monuments, police brutality, and systemic racism, and highlights the ongoing use of prison labor in the United States.

Evanston, Illinois, is considering phasing out natural gas in new buildings, influenced by a recent federal court decision overturning Berkeley, California's gas ban. Legal experts suggest cities prepare for litigation from the natural gas industry but highlight lawful methods to phase out gas, such as using police powers, building codes, air emissions standards, zoning regulations, and franchise agreements. The decision may impact smaller communities' electrification efforts due to potential legal costs, but experts reassure that viable legal pathways exist.

The Biden administration, through the U.S. Department of Transportation, has proposed a rule requiring states and metropolitan planning organizations to set and report on targets for reducing greenhouse gas emissions from National Highway System roads. This initiative aligns with the administration's goal of achieving net-zero emissions by 2050. The bipartisan infrastructure law supports this effort with $6.4 billion in funding. The proposal follows a Supreme Court decision limiting the EPA's regulatory power, and has received mixed reactions, including criticism from U.S. Sen. Shelley Moore Capito.

Las Vegas has introduced a digital twin of a section of its downtown to model scenarios for energy use, emissions, traffic, and emergency management. This initiative, in collaboration with Cityzenith and Terbine, aims to enhance sustainability and urban planning. The project, showcased at CES, will help visualize data for various stakeholders and is part of Cityzenith's broader 'Clean Cities - Clean Future' initiative. The digital twin is in its early stages, focusing on pilot projects to validate the technology's viability.

Cities across the U.S. are grappling with overpopulation of Canada geese, leading to dirty parks, water contamination, and public resource strain. Rochester, Minnesota, has implemented non-lethal methods like egg oiling and habitat modification to manage the geese population, while Des Moines, Iowa, is using dogs and habitat changes. The issue is controversial, with community pushback in some areas, but cities are exploring various strategies to balance wildlife conservation with urban cleanliness and safety.

Hoboken, New Jersey, declared a climate emergency in 2017, leading to significant climate action plans and renewable energy initiatives. Other cities, including Evanston, Illinois, and a coalition of Minnesota cities, have followed suit with their own declarations addressing climate change and other crises like racism and housing affordability. These declarations aim to mobilize resources and signal commitment from city leadership, though their effectiveness depends on follow-through and community engagement. San Diego's repeated shelter crisis declarations highlight the challenges and accountability in addressing homelessness. The article underscores the importance of turning declarations into substantive actions and maintaining ongoing efforts to achieve meaningful change.

Several billionaires, including Elon Musk and Bill Gates, have announced plans to build smart cities in the U.S., but most projects have seen little progress and face significant challenges. Musk's planned city in Bastrop, Texas, has encountered multiple government violations and local opposition. Other proposed cities, such as Telosa and California Forever, are still in early stages with concerns about transparency and resources. Experts question the feasibility and ethical implications of these billionaire-led initiatives, suggesting that support for public and cooperative housing might be more beneficial.

Washington's largest cities, Spokane and Seattle, are reimagining their downtown areas to adapt to new work patterns and address affordable housing needs. Spokane is incentivizing developers to build affordable housing on vacant land and repurposing office buildings for residential use. Seattle is focusing on arts and culture, life sciences, and educational facilities to revitalize its downtown. Both cities are also exploring the future of retail, with Seattle's Seattle Restored program turning pop-up shops into longer-term leases. Public-private partnerships and state incentives are seen as crucial for these transformations.

Transit ridership in the U.S. has risen to over 70% of pre-pandemic levels, with nearly 147 million trips taken in late September. This increase could help public transit agencies address financial issues caused by reduced fare revenue. Federal COVID-19 relief funds are depleting, with most agencies expected to exhaust these funds by January 2024. The Metropolitan Transportation Authority faces significant budget deficits starting in 2025. Transit officials are considering various measures to address financial challenges, including service cuts, fare hikes, and equity-focused fare reductions.

Local governments frequently use property-assessed clean energy (PACE) programs to finance climate initiatives, according to a Brookings Institution report. These programs, available in 39 states, help property owners fund energy efficiency projects through long-term property tax repayments. Despite their growing popularity, PACE programs are not a comprehensive solution and face criticism over consumer protections. Other cities have adopted local financing authorities or funding partnerships to support decarbonization efforts. The report suggests that cities with established local funding mechanisms may better leverage federal climate investments like the Inflation Reduction Act’s Greenhouse Gas Reduction Fund.

New Jersey Governor Phil Murphy signed a groundbreaking bill incentivizing the use of low-carbon concrete in construction projects, aiming to reduce the state's carbon footprint. The law offers tax credits for assessing and using concrete mixes with lower carbon emissions, with the state's Department of Environmental Protection setting embodied carbon standards. This initiative, supported by the Natural Resources Defense Council and aligned with federal efforts under the Biden administration, is expected to drive investment in low-carbon technologies and create a healthier environment for future generations.

Philadelphia and other cities are addressing the tech worker shortage by reskilling existing employees through apprenticeship programs. Philadelphia's initiative, which includes partnerships with General Assembly and LaunchCode, has shown promising results, increasing tech staff capacity and diversity. Similar efforts in Minneapolis, through the MSP TechHire program, aim to train lower-income residents in tech skills. Experts emphasize the importance of inclusivity and buy-in from staff for successful retraining programs.

Community solar+storage projects in California offer significantly more value when built on urban commercial and industrial rooftops compared to rural areas, according to research by The Brattle Group commissioned by Solar Landscape. Urban siting preserves open land, speeds up permitting and grid interconnection, and provides job opportunities in disadvantaged areas. The findings suggest that policymakers should allocate incentives to urban projects despite their higher costs. The California Public Utilities Commission is developing a community renewable energy program, and the state Senate Budget Committee has proposed $400 million for community solar+storage.

Cities are increasingly adopting transit-oriented developments (TODs) to boost public transit ridership and address housing shortages. Seattle's Sound Transit is a prime example, using leftover land for affordable housing and commercial spaces. Other cities like Los Angeles, Orlando, and Chicago are also implementing TODs. The Federal Transit Administration is supporting these efforts with $11 million in funding. However, concerns about gentrification and displacement remain, with experts advocating for policies to protect existing residents. In Atlanta, the Metropolitan Atlanta Rapid Transit Authority is planning a TOD at Bankhead rail station, aiming to balance new development with community needs. The national Infrastructure Investment and Jobs Act is expected to provide more opportunities for TODs, emphasizing the need for inclusive and equitable urban planning.

Billionaire Marc Lore is spearheading the development of Telosa, a sustainable smart city in the American desert, with potential locations in Nevada, Utah, and Arizona. The project aims to house 50,000 residents by 2030 and eventually grow to 5 million. The city will integrate advanced technologies, such as autonomous vehicles, and focus on sustainability by eliminating fuel-based cars and reducing water use. The city will be designed with 36 districts, each functioning as a '15-minute city' to ensure accessibility. The project also explores innovative financing models and better policing strategies.

Several billionaires, including Elon Musk and Bill Gates, have announced plans to build smart cities in the U.S., but most have seen little tangible progress. Musk's planned city in Bastrop, Texas, has faced multiple government violations, while other projects like Telosa and California Forever are still in early stages. Critics argue that these billionaires lack the expertise to successfully build cities and should instead support public housing initiatives. Water shortages and political climates are significant challenges for these proposed cities.

Gilbane Building Co., based in Providence, Rhode Island, is partnering with Nextera Robotics to develop an AI platform named 'Didge' for jobsite capture and safety monitoring. The platform uses autonomous mobile robots to track construction progress, monitor environmental conditions, and enhance security. The robots, equipped with sensors and cameras, provide detailed visual data and a 360-degree view of the jobsite. This initiative aims to improve efficiency and safety on construction sites, leveraging Boston's talent pool and high-tech environment for further expansion.

Union City, a suburb of Atlanta, is focusing on bringing equity to its growing Latinx community, particularly in the Raymond Drive neighborhood. Mayor Vince Williams is leading efforts to ensure residents have access to public resources, addressing challenges like food insecurity and absentee landlords. Collaborations with community leaders and organizations aim to improve living conditions and provide educational and job opportunities. The city is also working on building affordable housing and improving communication with Spanish-speaking residents. The initiative is part of a broader effort to integrate and support all community members, regardless of their immigration status.

Portland City Council has advanced a climate emergency work plan with 43 priority actions aimed at reducing local emissions and building community resilience. The plan targets electricity supply, buildings, transportation, and industry, and includes measures like investing in community-owned renewable energy and implementing energy retrofits. The city aims to cut carbon dioxide emissions by 50% from 1990 levels by 2030 and achieve net-zero emissions by 2050. While the plan is comprehensive, concerns remain about the implementation and community engagement, particularly around the transition to renewable fuels.

Local governments are struggling to hire tech workers, facing competition from higher-paying private companies. San Jose, California, has seen a significant drop in applicants and is exploring flexible scheduling and improved job postings to attract talent. Kansas City, Missouri, is partnering with local organizations and universities to create a pipeline of tech workers, focusing on digital equity. South Bend, Indiana, successfully collaborated with the University of Notre Dame to address sewer overflow issues, demonstrating the potential of leveraging educational institutions for tech-intensive projects.

The Secure Neighborhoods program in Atlanta aimed to improve police-community relations by encouraging officers to live in the city. However, four years in, the program has faced criticism for not significantly improving trust and for contributing to gentrification. Incidents of crime near officer-owned homes and rising property values have raised concerns among residents. The program, run by the Atlanta Police Foundation, continues to expand despite mixed reactions from the community. Key figures like Dave Wilkinson and Michael Leo Owens highlight the complexities of policing and gentrification, while local residents express varied opinions on the program's impact.

Leica Geosystems, a division of Hexagon, has released the second generation of its BLK360 device, which can quickly scan areas to create digital twins, aiding in urban sustainability and infrastructure maintenance. The technology is already being used in U.S. cities like Los Angeles and Chattanooga to improve sustainability and traffic efficiency. Despite its high cost, the BLK360 is praised for its speed and accuracy, offering a more affordable alternative to higher-end devices. The tool also has potential applications in historical preservation, as demonstrated by its use in mapping ancient water systems in Naples, Italy.

The Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD) has announced the first wave of funding for its Green and Resilient Retrofit Program (GRRP), providing $18 million in grants and loans for energy-efficient and resiliency upgrades in multifamily properties. The GRRP, established under the Inflation Reduction Act, will distribute a total of $4.8 billion through various funding cohorts, each targeting different retrofit needs. The program aims to reduce utility costs, enhance housing safety, and address housing equity and environmental justice. Applications for the first round of funding are open, with multiple rounds planned through May 2024.

The adoption of building performance standards in U.S. jurisdictions has nearly doubled since 2020, with legislation enacted in three states and nine localities. These standards aim to reduce the carbon footprint of buildings and are seen as a key climate policy. The American Council for an Energy-Efficient Economy (ACEEE) report highlights the progress made, including the shift from energy use standards to carbon standards. Challenges remain, particularly for affordable housing, but jurisdictions are making allowances such as delayed compliance deadlines and additional funding. The report suggests improved standardization and stakeholder consultation to enhance the effectiveness of these regulations.

The Oregon Department of Transportation (ODOT) faces challenges in filling transportation jobs, particularly for snowplow drivers and surveyors. Sally Ridenour, ODOT's chief content strategist, emphasized the importance of raising awareness about transportation careers and having a robust communication strategy for recruitment. ODOT employs various methods, including job recruiting events, social media, and targeted email newsletters, to attract candidates. Their outreach efforts, particularly through associations and college programs, have successfully increased email subscriptions and job applicants.

The National Renewable Energy Lab (NREL) has developed BuildingSync, a data collection and management tool designed to help municipalities and building owners streamline energy audits and meet decarbonization goals. Partnering with Buildee and New York City, NREL aims to facilitate energy efficiency and compliance through standardized data exchange. The tool is being adopted by other cities like Washington D.C. and San Francisco. The Biden administration's federal building performance standard and the Inflation Reduction Act further support updated building energy standards. The Chicago Building Decarbonization Working Group has also made recommendations to reduce emissions from buildings.

Elon Musk plans to build a company town, Snailbrook, in Bastrop County, Texas, near Austin, raising concerns among locals and urban planners. The town aims to provide housing for employees of Musk's companies, including Tesla, SpaceX, and Boring Co. Critics worry about the lack of transparency, potential environmental impacts, and the control such towns exert over residents. Experts question the necessity of a company town so close to existing infrastructure and express concerns about its implications for local governance and housing rights.

Federal and state officials, sustainability experts, and a climate tech CEO discussed the future of sustainable cities at a Washington Post Live event. Key takeaways included the need to center equity in sustainability efforts, the importance of local needs driving funding, and the potential economic benefits of climate policy. Challenges such as a shortage of skilled construction workers were noted, but existing buildings can be retrofitted to meet energy efficiency standards. Maryland's initiatives to support local jobs and businesses through climate action were highlighted.

Local governments are facing a severe tech worker shortage, with San Jose's IT department experiencing a high vacancy rate that worsened after the COVID-19 pandemic. To combat this, San Jose is reevaluating job posts and considering nontraditional work schedules. Kansas City is building a hiring pipeline through partnerships with local universities and aSTEAM Village, a nonprofit focusing on digital equity. South Bend partnered with the University of Notre Dame to install sewer sensors, reducing overflows and saving costs. These initiatives reflect a broader trend of local governments seeking creative solutions to attract and retain tech talent.

Insulating existing buildings with materials that store carbon or have low embodied carbon can significantly reduce emissions, as detailed in an RMI report. Deep energy retrofits, which include installing heavily insulated shells, can lower emissions more effectively than typical weatherization, especially in cold and mixed-humid climates. The report highlights that using carbon-storing materials like corkboard insulation, wood fiberboard, and hempcrete can transform buildings into carbon-storing entities, making them more climate-resilient, healthier, and cost-effective to operate. The Inflation Reduction Act is expected to accelerate the adoption of new building energy codes, contributing to this trend.

In 2023, several major construction projects in the United States are expected to reach significant milestones. These include the Buffalo Bills' $1.4 billion stadium in New York, the $14.2 billion JFK Airport expansion in New York City, the $1.6 billion Southeast Connector in the Dallas-Fort Worth area, an $810 million BMW supplier EV plant in South Carolina, Amazon's $35 billion data center campus in Northern Virginia, the $3.7 billion Fontainebleau Las Vegas resort and casino, and the $8 billion Related Santa Clara development in California. These projects span various sectors and are notable for their scale and potential impact on their respective regions.

Denver is shifting its focus to include embodied carbon in its green building code, which will take effect in May. This change reflects a broader trend across the U.S. towards decarbonization, with cities and states expected to adopt more policies addressing embodied carbon and electrification. The Inflation Reduction Act is anticipated to bolster these efforts by providing funding for new building energy codes. Experts suggest that while new construction is often prioritized, retrofitting existing buildings is crucial for reducing embodied carbon. Additionally, there is a growing interest in using alternative materials like timber, straw, and hemp in construction.

Denver's new green code, effective in May, will address both operational energy and embodied carbon emissions from construction materials like concrete and steel. Experts predict a rise in local and state actions across the U.S. to promote building electrification and low embodied-carbon buildings, supported by the Inflation Reduction Act's funding. Cities like Portland and New York are already implementing policies to reduce carbon emissions from construction. The focus is shifting towards retrofitting existing buildings and promoting a circular economy by salvaging materials. The U.S. may also see increased use of sustainable materials like timber, straw, and hemp in construction.

Smart cities in 2023 are expected to be shaped by trends in transportation design, street space utilization, housing, and downtown revitalization. Economic challenges and federal funding will influence city decisions and innovations. Public transit faces budget issues, while micromobility sees growth despite economic setbacks. Cities are rethinking downtown designs and street use, with federal funds beginning to impact local initiatives. Local governments are innovating policies to reduce emissions and increase housing availability. Embodied carbon, electrification, and circular economy approaches are likely to gain policy attention. Micromobility could grow with proper infrastructure and public charging considerations.

Denver's new green code, effective in May, will address both operational energy and embodied carbon emissions from construction materials like concrete and steel. Experts predict a rise in local and state actions across the U.S. focusing on building electrification and low embodied-carbon buildings in 2023. The Inflation Reduction Act's funding is expected to bolster these efforts. Cities like Portland and New York are already implementing policies targeting embodied carbon. Emphasis is also on retrofitting existing buildings and promoting a circular economy by salvaging materials. The U.S. may see increased use of timber and other sustainable materials in construction.

The Orlando Economic Partnership unveiled a digital twin of the metro region, developed with Unity, covering 800 square miles. This tool aims to aid public and private sector decisions on infrastructure, utilities, and business development. The digital twin, housed at OEP's headquarters, includes a VR experience and plans for future enhancements like real-time data integration and predictive capabilities. The project, costing over $1 million, seeks to attract partners and generate revenue. Potential applications include infrastructure planning and stormwater management, with ongoing discussions with the city of Orlando.

Miami Gardens, Florida, has collaborated with CEEK VR to develop a metaverse project, offering an immersive virtual reality world that showcases city landmarks and amenities. The project aims to provide a new way for residents and visitors to interact with the city, with future phases including virtual event attendance. While the metaverse concept is still evolving, other cities like Seoul and Santa Monica are also adopting similar technologies to enhance resident engagement and city services.

Scott Benerofe's winter hike in New Hampshire's White Mountains highlights the critical role of GPS technology in modern hiking. While devices like the Garmin inReach Mini have become essential for many hikers, providing safety and connectivity, experts caution against overreliance on technology. The article discusses the advancements in satellite technology and its impact on search and rescue operations, emphasizing the importance of traditional navigation skills and realistic expectations for rescue times. The narrative includes both positive outcomes and potential pitfalls of using GPS devices in wilderness settings.

The article explores the challenges of achieving equity in planned cities, focusing on a billionaire's proposal for Telosa in the American desert. It highlights the historical context of planned communities like Assembly Square and Columbia, emphasizing the importance of affordable housing and diversity from the outset. Experts express concerns about the privatization of city planning and the environmental and social sustainability of such projects. The article underscores the need for inclusive planning that considers existing communities and infrastructure.

Mexico City's Cablebus, an aerial cable car system, has transformed public transit in the city, particularly benefiting the populous borough of Iztapalapa. The system, introduced by Mayor Claudia Sheinbaum, offers a faster and more scenic alternative to traditional buses, reducing commute times and enhancing the quality of life for residents. The initiative has been well-received, with plans for expansion, and is seen as a model for other cities facing similar transit challenges. However, experts caution that while aerial trams offer unique advantages, they may not be suitable for all urban environments.

The author recounts their experience moving to Cottleville, Missouri, and their initial disdain for the prevalent golf carts in the town. Despite initial skepticism, the author rents a golf cart and discovers the joys of the slower-paced, community-oriented lifestyle it offers. Golf carts are gaining popularity across the U.S. for short trips and are seen as a potential tool against climate change due to their electric nature and low carbon footprint. The article explores the broader trend of golf cart usage in suburban communities, the environmental benefits, and the social connections they foster.

San Francisco and Seattle are addressing the shortage of public toilets through different approaches. San Francisco's Public Works department launched the Pit Stop program, increasing the number of public bathrooms to 33, with various types and 24/7 availability in some locations. The program is well-funded and aims to provide clean and safe facilities. In contrast, Seattle's nonprofit Real Change advocates for more public bathrooms but faces funding challenges, especially after COVID-19 redirected resources. Nonprofits like Lava Mae and Neighborhood Well also play crucial roles in providing hygiene services in various cities.

The article discusses the growing acceptance and advocacy for affordable and high-density housing projects in the United States, highlighting the YIMBY (Yes, In My Back Yard) movement. Developers like The Habitat Co. and Evergreen Real Estate Group are experiencing increased public support for their projects, a shift from the traditional opposition. The movement is gaining traction as communities recognize the need for local housing solutions, driven by the housing crisis affecting many. Key figures in the article include Jeff Head, David Block, and Christopher Ptomey, who emphasize the positive change in public sentiment and the importance of addressing housing barriers.

Pavlopetri, a 5,000-year-old submerged city off the coast of southern Greece, is a significant archaeological site facing threats from natural and human activities. Rediscovered by marine geo-archaeologist Nicholas C. Flemming, the site has been extensively studied, revealing its historical importance as a Bronze Age port city. Efforts to preserve Pavlopetri are ongoing, with contributions from various organizations and advancements in technology aiding in its documentation and protection. The site highlights the impact of climate change on coastal cities and underscores the importance of ocean exploration and cultural heritage preservation.

Since its establishment in 2016, San Diego's Affordable Homes Bonus Program has been utilized in thousands of projects to increase housing density without updating zoning laws. The program, which allows developers to build more units if a higher number of them are affordable, has been a key policy in addressing the housing shortage and rising costs in urban areas. In 2020, 44% of eligible home projects used the program, creating over 6,000 homes and 463 deed-restricted affordable homes in mixed-income projects, primarily without public subsidy. The program aligns with the city's climate change goals, with 95% of projects located near high-performing transit stops and two-thirds in high opportunity census tracts, providing low-income families access to better amenities and job opportunities.

Transit-oriented developments (TODs) are gaining traction in cities like Seattle, Los Angeles, and Atlanta as a means to increase public transportation ridership and provide affordable housing. Sound Transit in Seattle is selling land below market value for affordable housing and commercial space, with a focus on partnerships to overcome high construction costs. Concerns about gentrification and displacement are being addressed through policies and community engagement. The Federal Transit Administration is funding TOD projects, and the bipartisan infrastructure law is expected to provide more opportunities. Anti-displacement measures such as rent control and inclusive zoning are suggested, along with ensuring TODs serve the needs of older adults and existing residents.

The Orlando Economic Partnership is funding a digital twin project for the Orlando metro region, which will include a 40-square-mile area encompassing the Space Coast, amusement parks, and the Orlando International Airport. Developed by Unity, the digital twin will use real-time data for infrastructure and business development decisions and is expected to be unveiled in October. The project aims to facilitate scenario planning and attract business investments by showcasing the region in a holographic display. Digital twins are increasingly used by cities for data-rich planning, and the Orlando project's future versions will offer enhanced data capabilities and an open back end for user-generated scenarios.

Cities like Austin, Texas, and Seattle are offering incentives such as gift cards and compensation to encourage public engagement in city planning. These incentives aim to gather input from community members, particularly those who are economically marginalized, to ensure equitable solutions to transportation and mobility issues. The Austin Transportation Department, in collaboration with the University of Texas at Austin and Jails to Jobs, is developing a mobility hub with grant funding. Seattle is analyzing a citywide process for compensating community input as part of its racial equity and social justice commitment. Experts emphasize the importance of authentic engagement beyond transactional relationships for achieving equity in city planning.

California's $15 minimum wage law, implemented in 2016, takes full effect this year for large employers, with small employers following by 2023. The state will adjust the minimum wage annually for inflation. Activist Joe Sanberg and worker advocates are pushing for an $18 minimum wage by 2025, citing the high cost of living. Opponents, including management-side representatives, argue that higher wages could strain municipal budgets. The debate highlights the economic divide in California and the ongoing struggle to balance fair wages with economic feasibility.

Living wage ordinances, which apply to certain workers in businesses contracting with local governments, have been implemented in various U.S. cities like Burlington and Anaheim. These ordinances aim to bridge the income gap and improve worker conditions without significantly impacting local economies. While they don't drastically alter poverty or unemployment rates, they enhance worker morale and productivity. The ordinances have paved the way for broader minimum wage laws and have been instrumental in shaping public opinion on wage issues. Despite their limitations, they remain crucial in areas without higher citywide minimum wages.

Atlanta is considering appointing a night mayor to address issues affecting nighttime workers and activities, beyond just nightlife and entertainment. The initiative, proposed by councilmember Amir Farokhi, aims to ensure safety, transportation, and basic needs like public bathrooms for night-shift workers. The concept follows examples from cities like Amsterdam, London, and Washington, D.C., which have implemented similar roles. The feasibility study approved by the city council will determine the responsibilities and budget for the position, with plans to hire a night mayor in 2022. Experts like Andreina Seijas emphasize the importance of a holistic approach to nighttime governance.

Swinerton, a large contractor based in San Francisco, is filtering through construction technology solutions to find those beneficial on the jobsite. The company, which recently opened an office in New York City, is implementing high-tech solutions like a drywall robotics system from Canvas, a layout robot from Dusty Robotics, and Boston Dynamics' Spot the robot dog for project progress viewing and issue detection. Swinerton is also developing prefabricated offerings, including the Perq parking garage solution. Vice President Andrew Pearl emphasizes that while technology improves safety and productivity, the human element remains essential in construction.

In Minneapolis, the homeownership gap between Black and white residents is the widest of any major U.S. city, with a 52 percentage point difference. Carrie Chang, CEO of the Minneapolis Area REALTORS®, and Chris Vincent from Habitat for Humanity International discuss the historical and systemic barriers to homeownership for Black people, including redlining and discriminatory practices. The real estate industry, including the National Association of REALTORS® and the Minneapolis Area REALTORS®, is taking steps to address these inequities through educational support, mentorship, advocacy for equitable housing finance policies, and initiatives like the Black Homeownership Collective's goal to create three million new Black homeowners by 2030. These efforts aim to increase Black homeownership and, consequently, the ability to build generational wealth.

Boston's digital twin, a 3D model capturing the city's landscape, aids in planning and decision-making. This technology, used by cities like Los Angeles and Chattanooga, allows for data-driven simulations to test changes before implementation. Digital twins help reduce energy consumption and greenhouse gas emissions, with companies like Cityzenith leading the development. Challenges include data management, privacy issues, and the need for continuous updates. Successful projects in Chattanooga demonstrate the potential for improved traffic flow and energy efficiency, highlighting the importance of dedicated resources and collaboration.

Billionaire Marc Lore plans to build a sustainable smart city named Telosa in the U.S. desert, aiming to house 5 million people. The city will feature environmentally friendly architecture and energy production, with a drought-resistant water system. Experts highlight the challenges of building in a desert, such as water scarcity and high costs, but also note the potential for innovation and sustainability. The project is compared to other smart city initiatives globally, with a focus on the benefits of starting from scratch versus retrofitting existing cities.

Hebrew National's marketing strategy has significantly influenced the perception of kosher food in the United States, portraying it as a mark of quality and health. Despite some religious Jews not considering Hebrew National truly kosher, the brand's advertising, especially the 'we answer to a higher authority' slogan, has resonated with the non-Jewish public. This perception has been bolstered by historical concerns over food safety, as highlighted by works like Upton Sinclair's 'The Jungle' and Rachel Carson's 'Silent Spring'. The article discusses how kosher certification has become a widespread assurance of quality, with over 40% of packaged foods in the U.S. now certified kosher.

Increasing housing density through accessory dwelling units (ADUs) is gaining acceptance across various communities, with significant legislative support in states like California and Oregon. Despite the momentum, challenges such as local preemption, high costs, and regulatory issues hinder widespread ADU adoption. Experts like David Morley and Ahmad Abu-Khalaf emphasize the need for tailored financial products and government subsidies to make ADU construction accessible to lower- and moderate-income households. While ADUs are not a complete solution to the housing affordability crisis, they are a crucial part of a broader strategy to increase housing diversity and supply.

Homebuyers in a competitive market are increasingly using escalation clauses to secure their desired properties. These clauses allow buyers to automatically increase their offers in response to competing bids, potentially bypassing lengthy negotiations. While some buyers, like Greta Miller and Peter Dang, have found success with this strategy, others, such as Mary Kate Bishop, express concerns about its ethical implications and the risk of overpaying. Experts like David Reiss highlight that the use of escalation clauses varies by state and seller, and while they can be advantageous, they also reveal buyers' maximum willingness to pay, which can be a double-edged sword.

Recreational marijuana has become legal in Virginia, and the Richmond area is preparing for the changes this brings.

In 1966, the predominantly Black neighborhood of Linnentown in Athens, Georgia, was destroyed through eminent domain to make way for University of Georgia dormitories. Decades later, former residents successfully pushed for Athens-Clarke County to allocate funds for public projects as a form of reparations, marking the first official act of reparations in Georgia. The resolution acknowledges the displacement as an act of institutionalized racism. Efforts include participatory budgeting, historical markers, and a Black history center. The University of Georgia has faced criticism for its role and lack of acknowledgment in Linnentown's erasure.

The Wiyot Tribe has reclaimed 202 acres of Tuluwat Island in Eureka, California, marking the first time a U.S. municipality has transferred a Native land parcel of this size without a sale, lawsuit, or court order. This historic event follows years of activism and negotiations, culminating in an emotional ceremony. The tribe plans to clean up the island, remove invasive species, and hold the World Renewal Ceremony, interrupted by the 1860 massacre, for the first time since 2014.

The article discusses the controversy surrounding the construction of natural gas pipelines, particularly the Atlantic Coast Pipeline (ACP), and the broader implications for energy infrastructure and climate change. It highlights the regulated monopoly of energy utility companies and their guaranteed rate of return, which incentivizes the construction of potentially unnecessary pipelines. The article points out that despite the plateauing demand for electricity, companies like Duke and Dominion are pushing for the ACP, which may not be needed due to the availability of renewable energy sources and existing infrastructure. The piece also touches on the financial aspects of the natural gas industry, the environmental concerns, and the impact on local communities. It suggests that the push for natural gas infrastructure is short-sighted, given the looming threat of climate change and the shift towards renewable energy sources.

The natural death movement, led by women like Kerry Potter-Kotecki, Sarah Chavez, and Sarah Wambold, is changing the American funeral industry by promoting environmentally-friendly practices such as biodegradable caskets and natural burials. The movement aims to recycle the body back into the earth and conserve land, moving away from traditional practices like embalming with formaldehyde. The increase in women's participation in the funeral industry is also highlighted, with a shift from the historical exclusion of women to their current role in shaping more modern and sustainable practices.

The article discusses the lack of price transparency in the funeral industry, highlighting the experience of Laura Kerben, who was faced with an unexpectedly high funeral bill. It mentions the Federal Trade Commission's Funeral Rule, which requires funeral homes to provide pricing over the phone or in person but not online, except in California. The article features two tech companies, Parting.com and Funeralocity, which aim to provide price comparisons for funeral services online. Parting.com, co-founded by Tyler Yamasaki, covers prices for a significant portion of U.S. funeral homes, while Funeralocity, founded by Ed Michael Reggie, focuses on the Atlanta area. Both companies have different profit models but do not charge consumers. The article also references the Funeral Consumers Alliance and the Consumer Federation of America's efforts to petition the FTC to mandate online price disclosure. The piece suggests that while start-ups are helping, clear online pricing should be a standard practice for all funeral homes.