Community Development

Community Development is a key priority for local and state government agencies, focusing on improving the quality of life in communities through economic growth, housing, and social services. By fostering strong, vibrant communities, governments can address poverty, unemployment, and access to resources. This directory provides articles on community development and related topics like Economic Development, which explores strategies for job creation and attracting investments that drive regional growth.

Thirty years ago, the city of Santa Cruz, California, was nearly decimated by the Loma Prieta earthquake. It has since taken steps to make sure that never happens again.
Residents of Ocean City, New Jersey, are committed to rebuilding their flood damaged homes despite the certainty that disaster will strike again.
Gov. Gavin Newsom signed a bill this week that will limit sudden rent increases, a major contributing factor to the state’s homelessness problem.
Milan joins a growing list of European cities embracing car-free futures for their central neighborhoods
Leafy, tree-lined streets aren’t just good for property values; they may also be good for your health, according to a new report
The group claims legislation requiring health warning labels on sugary beverages and prohibiting ads of them on city property violates the First Amendment
A short supply of available units is pushing up rent prices nationwide
Munich wants to build a network of bike lanes running through the city and into the suburbs, in a bid to encourage car-free commuting
The TRIP report contains pavement condition data and driver costs for urban areas with a population of 250,000 or greater
The National League of Cities analyzed 100 “state of the city” speeches by mayors of U.S. cities of varying size and region
New Climate Economy report says local action is among measures that could make up shortfall in emissions cuts from pledges ahead of Paris summit
The City Council voted to expand a ban on sitting and lying on sidewalks following complaints from tourists about too many transients living near the beach
“Why don’t cities and governments, who already plant trees, simply plant fruit-bearing trees to help with the food supply and welfare?”
The Department of Homeless Services has increased security at shelters, conducted on-site security assessments, and met with shelter staff to address concerns
A Downtown Partnership are taking a close look at a concept that would involve altering part of Liberty Avenue into what’s called a “shared space.”
Experts recommend six fixes California can implement based on Australia’s successful water allocation system reforms
Santa Clara County’s 2015 homeless census and survey show progress but “we still have a large unmet need,” according to the Board of Supervisors president
Pittsburgh City Council has simplified an ordinance governing people who want to keep chickens, ducks or goats on their property
Boston Mayor Martin J. Walsh is calling for a ban on dip, snuff and chewing tobacco