#33: Boston's Community Land Trust, Korean Neighborhood Evolution, and Water Misconceptions

Welcome to the 33rd issue of Urbanism Now, our weekly newsletter curated with brief and insightful urban ideas from around the world to inspire action where you (c)are.

This newsletter is curated by Maria Paula Moreno Vivas and Ray Berger. Learn more on our About page.

Thank you for your interest and support. If you find this newsletter useful, please forward it to a friend!

Let's get started:

• A community-controlled investment fund in Boston is financing a community land trust's first new construction project, creating six permanently affordable condominiums. The Boston Ujima Project's investment fills a gap left by traditional lenders who are often hesitant to fund the community land trust model.

• An analysis of Korean neighborhoods shows their evolution from modern, car-centric commuter towns to walkable, eco-friendly smart cities. Morphological mapping reveals a shift toward public transit-oriented models, repurposed street parking for open space, and a planning focus on qualitative social and environmental indicators.

• A study of 25 European countries finds that young, single and well-educated people are more satisfied with life in cities, while the unemployed are less satisfied. In richer EU countries, women are relatively more satisfied with city life than men, a trend which is reversed in poorer countries.

Videos, podcasts, books, and socials:

• Johnny Harris is at it again with a video challenging common misconceptions about tap vs. bottled water, showing how fear, unequal testing in low-income communities, and the booming filter industry shape our choices.

• All Things Urban compiled a watchlist of more than 20 essential TED Talks for urbanists, covering topics from walkability and public space to sustainability and equity.

• “The Urbanism of the 'King of the Hill' Reboot” explores 15 years of real-world urbanism changes, from the male loneliness epidemic to the Dallas metroplex's sprawl are reflected in the show.

Jobs:

• Dr. Wojciech Kębłowski is seeking doctoral candidates interested in working at The University of Hong Kong. Apply by September 31.

• The Citizens Budget Commission is hiring a research associate for its New York City team to analyze the city's budget, capital plan, and debt.

• The city of Elk Grove, California, is hiring a sustainability program manager to develop, implement, and manage city-wide sustainability and climate action programs. $109k - $146k salary. Apply by September 8.

• The University of California, Berkeley is hiring a tenure-track assistant professor in design and urban transformation to research

...