urban planning

The 2010 census will determine Oregon’s share of more than $400 billion in federal funds for schools, hospitals, job training and more. Census data also provides facts that help with research and advocacy on topics ranging from disease prevention to disaster preparedness.

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FF Audio 2010-02-26 Census 2010.mp3

The Pacific Northwest is known around the world for its natural physical beauty and outdoor recreation opportunities. But it is easy to overlook "nearby nature" in our communities and its importance to the everyday health and well-being of the people who live, work, play and learn in cities. Urban greening, also known by names such as urban forestry and sustainable landscaping, offers an array of advantages that extend far beyond aesthetics and are profoundly important to quality of life.

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2009.10.16 Urban Ecology.mp3

With its commitment to sustainability and “green living,” Portland frequently ranks as one of the most livable cities in America. But the high quality of life that brings people to Portland has not automatically translated to economic opportunities or jobs once they’re here.

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2009.07.24 Flynn PDC.mp3

Hope. Change. Yes we can. President-elect Barack Obama built his campaign around these three concepts. What kinds of changes, if any, can American’s realistically hope for from the new administration?

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Dec 05 2008 CCOP copy.MP3

The I-5 bridge across the Columbia River is a major congestion point on the I-5 corridor. Anticipated population growth and commercial development, along with traffic safety issues and earthquake preparedness, are driving a public conversation around how to address these challenges.The Columbia River Crossing Project, a joint project of the Oregon Department of Transportation and the Washington State Department of Transportation, is recommending that $4.2 billion be spent to replace the bridge with additional lanes for automobiles, pedestrians and bicycles.

Vibrant parks contribute to what makes Portland a great place to live, work and play. On June 20, Zari Santner, director of Portland Parks & Recreation, will explore the richness of the city’s parks system and explain how she is addressing the challenges of managing park resources and distributing those resources equally.

Economic development organizations and programs play a key role in promoting the economic vitality of the Portland-Vancouver region. In 2007 a group of business leaders established Greenlight Greater Portland, the first business-led and business-funded regional economic development organization in the region. Greenlight’s activities include identifying and promoting the region’s competitive advantages, including high-tech manufacturing, outdoor apparel and sustainable business clusters, and defining strategies for retaining businesses and attracting companies to the area.