Governance

Cities Are Infected With "Mega-Event Syndrome." One Geographer Says He Has the Cure

Events like the Olympics and World Cup often become headaches for cities and fail to live up to the economic hype. A geographer says cities need to wean themselves off their addition to those spectacles.

The YIMBY Movement Wants More Development, Not Less. But What, Exactly, Does That Mean?

Advocates view increased development as a way of creating more affordable housing in cities.

States and Cities Creating New Leadership Positions as They Rethink Their Approach to Transportation

U.S. cities are embracing new types of transportation leaders.

Feds Anticipate a More Active 2016 Hurricane Season

Hurricane season has been unusually quiet in recent years. That might change in 2016.

What's Your Bold Idea For Public Spaces in Houston?

Recent Houston visitors are sending the city the same message: don't be afraid to think outside the box.

How to Rethink Urban Design in the Wake of Flooding

To prevent devastating floods, experts say, the region may need to adjust the way it grows.

Houston Policymakers -- and Residents -- Giving Criminal Justice Reform a Boost

Support for change grows as officials look to reduce jail population and address racial disparities.

Most Houstonians Support an Equal Rights Ordinance, Survey Finds. So Why'd They Vote Against It?

Months after HERO failed, support for an equal rights ordinance still strong.

Cities Need to Change the Way They Examine Rising Sea Levels

New research suggests cities need to adapt a new way of modeling -- or else prepare for the consequences.

How the Worst Methane Leak in U.S. History Could Help Transform California’s Energy Grid

California officials advance plan to use restitution to spur energy innovation.

Could Better Data Keep Houstonians Safe During Floods?

Rice University leaders developing new technology to give more advance warning of flooding in problem areas.

Mayoral Elections in Kentucky: 2010-2014

This report looks at local elections in Kentucky, including how often mayoral races go unopposed or feature an incumbent.

What's the Big Deal About Houston's New Street Lights?

The new bulbs are causing some criticism. But we need to look at the bigger picture.

Mayoral Elections in California: 1995-2014

This report examines local elections in California, including the impact of off-cycle elections on turnout.

Turnout in Local Elections is Terrible. There's an Easy Fix.

L.A.'s mayor won the election with fewer votes than any of its elected mayors since the 1930s -- when it was half its size. To raise the bar, officials just have to look at a calendar.