Economic Development

As Inequality Rises, So Does Support for Government Action

More and more Houstonians say the government should play an outsized role in reducing inequality.

Cities Are Embracing Streetcars, But It's Not Always Smooth Sailing

Recent streetcar stumbles may offer lessons for cities.

To Thrive, Cities Must Figure Out How to Make "Thick" Infrastructure

Underutilized spaces present the chance to reconnect neighborhoods, offer new transportation options and encourage physical activity.

Along Gulf Coast, Officials Make the Case for Passenger Rail's Return

After more than a decade, the coast could ride the rails again.

Austin Shows the New Equity Imperative for Local Economic Development

Austin works to create the prototype for how communities of the future compete in a global marketplace.

Chart of the Week: How 12 Cities Are Using Airbnb

Airbnb isn't just for those looking to make some extra cash. In fact, full-time business owners play a major role in the site's success.

How Can We Develop Houston's East End Properly?

A panel says a deliberate approach is needed, lest the area become consumed by townhomes.

Local Governments Are Inefficient. Here Are Four Ways to Fix Them.

Most American cities are either too big or too small to serve the people who live in them in a cost-effective manner.

Redeveloping the East End: Catalyst for Sustainable Transitions

This report provides recommendations for sustainable development in the East End neighborhood.

Market-Based Zoning Needed During the Age of the "Sharing" Economy

As the sharing economy takes hold, it may be time to embrace a new type of zoning.

Harris County Judge Lays Out Latest Plan for Astrodome Overhaul

The new plan would cost considerably less than the $217 million overhaul voters rejected in 2013.

Houston Endowment Awards $7 Million Grant to Kinder Institute

It marks the largest contribution the Kinder Institute has received since 2010, when Rich and Nancy Kinder provided a permanent endowment gift of $15 million.

Want a Job Lead? It Helps If You Work With White People

The racial makeup of a labor market affects whether workers learn about job leads.

Cities are Finding Creative Ways to Boost Residents’ Financial Wherewithal

Dozens of cities across the country are taking a more active in role in figuring out how to support the financial stability of their residents.

California Developers, Stymied by Regulation, See Promise South of the Border

San Diego developers are increasingly viewing Tijuana as the next frontier in development, banking that they'll face a less intense regulatory environment south of the border.