Urban Planet is a daily roundup of blogs from around the world dealing specifically with urban environments. We’ll be on the lookout for websites outside the country that approach themes related to urban experiences and issues.
• You’re familiar with WalkScore and even the newly released BikeScore. Welcome, ParkScore! The mapping tool developed by the US Trust for Public Land allows users to develop customized maps for 40 US cities. The tool allows users to evaluate park access by neighborhood and determine where parks are still most needed. The TPL created the tool to enhance communities’ ability to lobby for more and better parks. (The Dirt)
• What is traffic and why does it happen? This simple video from ITDP Mexico does a great job at explaining induced demand – additional travellers that choose to drive when it is made more favourable through additional roads and fuel subsidies. In Mexico, only 30% of the population uses the car as their primary mode of transport, but if growth rates continue on pace that will mean 70 million cars on the road by 2030. (The Atlantic Cities)
• Remember Moby? If so, you were probably tuned into his electronic dance music rather than his photographs. Turns out Moby is a skilled photographer with a passion for LA architecture. In this video, the star explains his perspective and interest. (FlickrBlog)
• Punchy billboard ads often get attention. Greenpeace’s latest didn’t even make it to posting and it is still attracting eyeballs. The Globe and Mail reports that Pattison Outdoor denied Greenpeace’s ad condemning oil spills in Alberta with the text: “When there’s a huge solar energy spill, it’s just called a nice day. Green jobs, not more oil spills.” Ironically, the denial has raised more publicity for the environmental organization.
Image from ParkScore
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One comment
Hi there ! Great text. Last time I’ve read very good review of the White Building/Lea River Park written by R. Moore. Full text of that review was published in “Art and Design” section on The Guardian website. You can find review here: http://www.guardian.co.uk/artanddesign/2012/jul/15/white-building-lea-river-park. The review is quite interesting especially for people interested in gardens, architecture, etc.