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Friday Five: Funways, Caps, and Housing Conversions

Published over 1 year ago • 2 min read

Friday Five: Funways, Caps, and Housing Conversions

Happy Friday! Here's what we're reading this week:

What We're Reading This Week:

San Francisco’s ‘Great Funway’ Set to Open April 12

San Francisco is transforming part of the Great Highway into the “Great Funway,” a car-free space for walking, biking, and recreation along the coast. The project builds on pandemic-era street closures that proved popular with residents, offering a scenic, safe alternative to car traffic. City officials hope the Funway will become a permanent fixture, enhancing public access to open space while reducing vehicle congestion.

Can Multigenerational Roommate Houses Help Fix the Housing Market?

A unique housing model in Oregon is challenging traditional homeownership and rental norms by creating a shared living space designed for multiple generations and unrelated roommates. By blending private and communal areas, the home fosters affordability, social connection, and flexibility in a tight housing market. Advocates say this approach could help address the growing need for affordable, community-oriented housing while making better use of existing spaces.

Austin’s Light Rail Project Moves Forward Amid Political Uncertainty

Austin’s long-planned light rail system is making progress, but political and financial hurdles still threaten its future. City officials and transit advocates see the project as a crucial step in easing congestion and supporting sustainable growth, yet concerns over funding, leadership changes, and shifting priorities could derail momentum. Supporters argue that investing in reliable public transit is essential as Austin’s population booms, while critics remain skeptical about costs and execution. The coming months will be pivotal in determining whether the city stays on track.

How a Simple Change to California Parks Could Reduce Wildfire Risk

California is testing a new approach to fire prevention: clearing overgrown brush in state parks while preserving biodiversity. By strategically managing vegetation rather than removing it entirely, officials aim to create natural firebreaks that slow the spread of wildfires. This method balances ecological health with public safety, reducing fuel loads while maintaining habitat for native species. Advocates say this strategy could serve as a model for fire-prone regions worldwide.

Buffalo’s Highway Cap Project Stalls Amid Push for Full Removal

A plan to cap Buffalo’s Kensington Expressway is on hold as pressure mounts for a complete removal of the highway instead. The $1 billion project aimed to reconnect neighborhoods divided by the roadway, but many argue a cap won’t undo the lasting damage. Supporters of full removal see it as a rare opportunity to restore communities, improve air quality, and create a more livable city, while state officials weigh their options. The debate reflects a broader national movement to rethink urban highways.

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written by Michael Natelli

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