As wildfire risks and insurance costs rise, California lawmakers are exploring grants, tax credits, incentives, and loans to make home hardening more affordable. The proposals could strengthen resilience across homes and neighborhoods.
California Lawmakers Look to Support Home Hardening Through Financing Programs Read More »
San José State urban planning students evaluated relocation options for La Pulga, the historic Berryessa Flea Market in San José. Through vendor surveys, customer outreach, and site analysis, the La Pulga planners studied how future sites could preserve this vital cultural marketplace, support local vendors, and strengthen community planning in East San José.
La Pulga’s Future: Preserving Culture and Identity in a Changing San José Read More »
San Francisco Bay Area leads in sustainable urban planning, blending growth with bold environmental policies, green building, and innovative projects. Regional cooperation and equity are central to overcoming challenges like climate resilience and housing. The region’s technical expertise and collaborative spirit offer a model for cities worldwide.
State of Sustainability and Urban Planning in the San Francisco Bay Area Read More »
Celebrate late-summer connections with Northern as we look ahead to the September 17 Awards Gala, new professional development webinars, and the APA California Conference in Los Angeles. Plus, join us in thanking departing Board members and welcoming a leadership transition in 2027.
Director’s Notes: Fall 2026 Read More »
More than 115 Northern California planners shared what mid-career professionals need most: practical skill-building, meaningful networking, support through the transition to management, and candid conversations about technology, organizational politics, and burnout. See how their feedback is shaping the APA Northern California Mid-Career Program’s first events.
Heard You Loud and Clear: Results from the Mid-career Interest Survey Read More »
California’s 2026 legislative session concluded with major developments for planners, including proposed environmental justice requirements under AB 1457, new optional funding for local plan updates, and unresolved wildfire liability reforms. APA California is monitoring the Governor’s actions through September 30 and will share implementation guidance and funding details as they become available.
APA California Legislative Update: September 2026 Read More »
Board service is a meaningful way to support APA Northern Section and the planning profession. Learn more and find your opportunity to volunteer today!
Northern’s allied professional organizations offer events and programs in a variety of formats that you may find align well with your professional and continuing education goals.
Allied organizations: Upcoming events and programs Read More »
Bay Area cities are making decisions that shape housing, transportation, clean energy, and climate resilience. This roundup covers Fremont’s long-stalled housing project, Sunnyvale’s new Beam shared-ride service, Benicia’s potential Valero settlement-funded green transition, and San Francisco’s debate over street-tree requirements and permitting reform.
What We’re Reading | August 31 and September 1-4, 2026 Read More »
