8 Urban Governance and Public Policy Free Online FlashCards

What is urban governance?

Urban governance is how public agencies, elected officials, residents, businesses, and community organizations make and carry out decisions affecting a city.

What are key functions of local urban governments?

Local governments commonly shape land use, provide or fund services, maintain infrastructure, and set priorities through budgets and plans.

Why do urban policies often require intergovernmental coordination?

Many urban issues, including transportation, housing markets, and pollution, cross municipal boundaries, so addressing them often requires coordination among jurisdictions and agencies.

What does a comprehensive plan establish?

A comprehensive plan sets long-term goals for land use, housing, transportation, and public facilities.

How do zoning and capital budgets support a comprehensive plan?

Zoning and capital budgets help turn a comprehensive plan's long-term goals into rules and investments.

How can zoning reforms expand housing choices?

Allowing more than low-density housing can expand the range of possible homes, including apartments, accessory dwellings, and mixed-use buildings.

What is inclusionary zoning?

Inclusionary zoning uses rules or incentives to provide affordable units in some market-rate developments.

How can inclusionary zoning design affect housing construction?

Requirements that are too costly or poorly calibrated may discourage construction; incentives such as allowing more building density can help support affordable units.

What can complement housing-supply reforms to improve affordability?

Governments can combine housing-supply reforms with targeted assistance, such as funding affordable housing, preserving lower-cost homes, and supporting nonprofit housing.

How can cities reduce displacement risks during neighborhood revitalization?

Revitalization can raise rents and property values, putting existing residents and local businesses at risk. Early planning for housing preservation, tenant support, and community participation can help residents share in improvements.

What is transit-oriented development?

Transit-oriented development concentrates housing, services, and jobs in walkable areas near frequent public transportation.

Why may transit access need to be paired with housing measures?

Transit access alone does not ensure affordability; housing protections and investments may be needed so lower-income residents can benefit.