
featured Articles
Planning in Parallel: Lessons Learned from the San Carlos Parks Master Plan Process
Emphasizing an Adaptive Parks and Recreation System for the Future By Casey Case and Rylee Rodriguez, Gates Studio, Walnut Creek With the recent wave of development across California to address housing shortages, meet quotas under Regional Housing Needs Allocation (RHNA), and integrate necessary commercial uses for growing populations, many cities are increasingly reaching full build-out capacity. For these communities, a new challenge is arising:…
Why Urban Design Needs More Urban Designers
Urban design is no longer the work of a single profession. To meet today’s interconnected challenges, trained designers must share…
California Lawmakers Look to Support Home Hardening Through Financing Programs
As wildfire risks and insurance costs rise, California lawmakers are exploring grants, tax credits, incentives, and loans to make home…
La Pulga’s Future: Preserving Culture and Identity in a Changing San José
San José State urban planning students evaluated relocation options for La Pulga, the historic Berryessa Flea Market in San José….
State of Sustainability and Urban Planning in the San Francisco Bay Area
San Francisco Bay Area leads in sustainable urban planning, blending growth with bold environmental policies, green building, and innovative projects….
Northern Section News & Announcements
Director’s Notes: Fall 2026
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.
where in the woRLD? MEMBERS SHARE EXPERIENCES FROM NEAR AND FAR











