Perspectives

Why the Flood Bond is Important But Not Enough

There's no way to flood-proof Houston, but making it more prepared will take a variety of approaches and a lot of coordination.

National Partisan Nastiness Is Now Poisoning Local Politics

Zocalo Public Square | "Sometimes we couldn’t even agree on what to call our city."

Houston, Our Only Home

A new report sheds light on how assistance for refugees has shifted its focus to short-term employment, at the expense of the new arrivals' well-being.

In Fights Between States and Cities, It's Not Just Red vs. Blue

Governing | Preempting local laws is no longer a trend in just conservative states.

Cities Team Up To Tackle Urban Challenges With Data

Through the National Neighborhood Indicators Partnership, cities explore how to confront common challenges with data.

Why I’m Scared To Walk In Houston

The city needs a profound change in its motoring culture – not just from motorists themselves, but also from the authorities.

The Eight Elements of a Successful Innovation District

With a major renovation in the works, Houston's new innovation district should seek to have these characteristics.

Mitigating Flooding Requires Multiple Strategies

Engineering, green infrastructure and land protections must all be part of the flooding solution.

Houston Versus Chicago: A Reflection

A new sculpture sparked the latest in Houston and Chicago's urban rivalry. But some murkier truths lurk beneath the surface.

What Being Mayor in California Taught Me About Working in Houston

Coming to the Kinder Institute for Urban Research, who knew that my experience in Ventura would translate so well to Houston?

How To Test Your Economic Development Strategy

The truth is that when you lure a business to town, more likely than not you’re renting those jobs.

Op-Ed: What Trump's Infrastructure Plan Missed About the Review Process

Do citizens really have a say over infrastructure projects? Historically, no.

After Harvey's Rainwaters Receded, Fears Rose

Like Katrina and Sandy, Harvey shook Houstonians' from their complacency.

The 'New Urbanism' Movement Might Be Dead

City revival has ceased to be a radical idea, and that’s a good thing.

Kinder Institute to Offer New Urban Data Resources

The Kinder Institute's new Urban Data Platform may be the most important, enduring effort we undertake this year.