Accessory dwellings can triple the density on a single-family lot while preserving the character of neighborhoods. Fayetteville, Arkansas, is a rapidly growing city—the largest in Northwest Arkansas, … [Read more...]
Riparian Buffers – Celebrating Fifteen Years
The riparian buffers on our farm on Middle River are now fifteen years old. Fifteen years ago, the “River Farm” was basically a cool-season grass pasture with a few scattered mature trees along the banks of the river. … [Read more...]
Planning for resilience
“What the city lacks right now is some overarching plan.” That’s what Frederick’s new mayor, Michael O’Connor, said the other day, asking the public to weigh in on the findings of his Strategic Opportunities Advisory … [Read more...]
Why Are Developers Only Building Luxury Housing?
"Developers in my city are only building luxury housing. They're not building anything that ordinary people can afford." If you’ve said this lately, or heard someone else say it, here are five possible reasons … [Read more...]
Bicycling Infrastructure: The good, the bad and the ugly
Until recently, I’d been a member of the city of Frederick Bicycle and Pedestrian Advisory Committee (BPAC). I married a lovely lady a few weeks ago, sold my home, and moved just barely across the county border wall into … [Read more...]
Environmentalists and development: a complex relationship in a hyperbolic election season
In election races in DC, Maryland, and Virginia, candidates are claiming they “support the environment” or “are for smart growth.” Some of those candidates also seem to be against most development, while others are more … [Read more...]
County Executive Announces Legislation to support Accessory Dwelling Units
Frederick County is experiencing a gradually increasing problem and challenge when it comes to affordable housing. It is not an issue that will be resolved by any one thing. There are no "silver bullets" here. Rather, … [Read more...]
Wasted! The Story of Food Waste (free film at Hood College: May 12)
Join us for a very engaging and free film: “WASTED! The Story of Food Waste” "WASTED" aims to change the way people buy, cook, recycle, and eat food. Through the eyes of … [Read more...]