Jay Walljasper

Jay Walljasper—author of The Great Neighborhood Book—writes, speaks and consults across North America about how to create better communities.  The former editor of Utne Reader magazine and contributing editor of National Geographic Traveler, he lives in Minneapolis and is a Fellow at Augsburg University.  Find out more at: JayWalljasper.com.

Seaside FL

How A Florida Beach Town Changed How We Live

With pedestrian-friendly streets, congenial gathering spots and appealing traditional architecture, Seaside on Florida’s Panhandle  proves we can build new places with the qualities we love about classic neighborhoods—a notion once considered an impossible dream.

May 28, 2019

Science Museum of Minnesota

The Little Technology That Could

Solberg calculates that 75 percent of energy use and costs for heating could be eliminated in commercial, health care and residential buildings through AHR, even in the frosty Midwest.  He points to a new health club in Edina, Minnesota, which is already saving on construction costs and projected to see 50 percent lower operating costs.

May 16, 2019

Bike Breakthrough: Connecting Neighborhoods with Low-Stress Routes

For me, a good bike ride is both relaxing and stimulating—a chance to revel in the passing scenery as I feel the wind blow across my face. But I never expected to experience this in New York City.  Navigating Brooklyn and a bit of Manhattan on two wheels for the first time was a sublime surprise. Instead of constantly peering over my shoulder fearful of cars speeding toward me (as I expected), I actually savored the street life all around while pedaling through town.  

October 25, 2017

Our Bodies Are Made for Walking

 The first-ever report card on walking and walkable communities was announced at the Summit, underscoring the importance of the emerging walking movement.  The United States as a whole gets a failing grade in the following subjects: 1) pedestrian safety; 2) pedestrian infrastructure; 3) walking opportunities for children; 4) business and non-profit sector policies; and 5) public transportation, which is a key factor in walkable communities. We earned a D for public policies promoting walking, and a C in walking opportunities for adults.

September 25, 2017

Boosting Health in Everyone’s Hometown

Good health means more than good medical care. Many other things affect how long we live and how healthy we feel—conditions in our housing and neighborhoods, the social and physical environment of our communities, economic opportunities and the levels of stress in our lives.

August 1, 2017

Philadelphia’s Civic Commons Campaign: An Ambitious Campaign to Spread Opportunity into All Corners of the City

For decades the “Philadelphia Story” was about steady economic decline. That story is being rewritten today as many Americans rediscover the advantages of cities—inviting public spaces, rich cultural diversity and a creative environment that fertilizes start-ups and attracts talent.

July 10, 2017

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