Bad news...

for Eastdale Mall, Montgomery Mall, and almost any other single use mall (including, we predict EastChase). Read why here.

More interesting conversations about Smart Growth and the River Region can be found at this discussion board and at this one, too.

Court Plaza Grand Opening...

This is where I'm posting from right now as we await the grand opening of the Court Plaza on lower Dexter this morning.

Here's a story from this morning's Advertiser.

SmartCode in South Alabama?

Here's a story discussing a recent SmartCode work session that I held in Baldwin County. It will be interesting to see which South Alabama city ends up adopting a SmartCode first:

The commission, which typically gets the first look at development plans, should not bend with the pressure of developers, Emerson said.
"If you don't like what's being built, change the rules to get the desired result," Emerson said.

Free Wi-Fi for Downtown Montgomery...

Well, the first batch of smart growth news is coming out and it's good news for the Court Square and Lower Dexter district.

In particular, here's the press release announcing--among other things--the grand opening of the Court Square Plaza as well as free wi-fi for that general area.

And, here's the agenda for the grand opening.

Hope to see you there...

Word "on the street" is that the A&P Lofts are getting quite close to their premiere. I've recently toured them and they look fantastic--both inside and out.

I'm going to be putting together a photo essay on the project this weekend.

Look for it on Monday or Tuesday.

TNDs at play...

Here's a recent shot of life at The Waters (yep, that's Dawson Kendell Emerson on the trike)

This story out of Athens, Georgia mentions Montgomery as an example of one of the cities taking a leading role in adopting regulations that promotoe sustainable growth.

Smart Growth and Transportation?

Envision 2020 is hosting a day-long seminar on Wednesday in downtown Montgomery that will include discussions about sustainable transportation policies. Read more here.

Bridge Street Market Grand Opening...

Here are some images from this weekend's premiere of The Bridge Street Market at The Waters...

The Corner Store at The Waters...

...is officially open (and it has a wonderful feel to it!)...I'll have pictures later this weekend.

Additional River Region Smart Growth Info...

This discussion board has been posting some recent info on River Region development news.

And, this magazine (which is available both online and at local establishments), has had recent articles related to development issues including an interview with Mayor Bright and a profile of the Grandview project (including some floor plans).

The Waters Live/Work Building Photo Tour...

This morning, I went out and shot some images of the Live/Work building at The Waters (using a Nikon Coolpix L3)...Enjoy...

Office/Retail on the Ground Floor with Two Story Residential Units Above

Cindy Barginier Interiors and the Neighborhood Dentist

The Neighborhood YMCA and Waters Sales Office

In the foreground is the Bridge Street Market

that apparently opens this Friday for business...

For more, check out www.TheWatersAL.com

New Cloverdale area project...

...here are some photos I recently took of the soon-to-be completed Agnew Street Cottages adjacent to Huntingdon's football field. The funny thing is that I recall being in the public meeting where the original plans were approved and--let's just say--the final result here is much more pedestrian friendly to the surrounding area.

Plus, the buildings are beautiful and fit wonderfully into the neighborhood context.

Enjoy.

Walkability Article

This interesting article was forwarded to us by a Smart Growth supporter. It discusses the efforts of one advocate to encourage walkable communities in South Alabama through "walking audits".