Urban Edge

Insights, perspectives and stories about building better cities and better lives

At Rice University's Metro Day, Locals Share Their Concerns About MetroNEXT

Metro is making its rounds across Houston to get feedback about the MetroNEXT draft plans to understand what Houstonians want out of a public transit system.

Opportunity Zones: Gentrification on Steroids?

A new federal program meant to spur investment in underserved areas could bring positive changes. Or it could hasten gentrification, particularly in Houston.

How Are Young Adults' Housing Moves Affecting Neighborhood Diversity?

A new study uses longitudinal data to follow young adults as they leave their parents' homes.

Urban Review: Public vs. Private Investment, What's Left of California's Bullet Train and Some Property Tax Relief in Texas - Maybe

This week, why private investment needs to be considered alongside public dollars, what happened to California's innovative rail project, a painful proposal for property tax relief in Texas and more.

Addressing 'The Last Remaining and the Biggest Form of Segregation'

Government-created residential segregation is at the heart of a number of inequities. And the country is obligated to enact remedies, argues Richard Rothstein.

New Study Underscores Importance of Arts Education

Exposure to arts education was linked to more empathy and engagement, better writing scores and fewer disciplinary problems.

Bike-friendly Cities Should Be Designed for Everyone, Not Just for Wealthy White Cyclists

The Conversation | The single biggest group of Americans who bike to work live in households that earn less than $10,000 yearly.

Urban Review: Why Uber and Lyft Are Hurting Transit, Maternal Depression and Economic Mobility and The Role of Public Testimony

This week, more bad news about Uber and Lyft's impact on transit, the link between maternal mental health and mobility, whether public testimony really changes policy and more.

Education Partnerships Target 'Opportunity Youth,' But Structural Challenges Remain

While family obligations, financial insecurity and unfamiliarity with higher education systems keep many young adults on the sidelines, several efforts hope to offer a hand.

Gov. Greg Abbott Names School Finance, Property Tax Reform Emergency Items

Texas Tribune | The governor focused on bread-and-butter policy in a forum that has often featured a lot of red meat.