This is a handbook of international best practices on how cities throughout the world have improved their transportation options provided to their citizens. Roadways for cars are bring turned into walkways and bikeways, light-rail transit systems have been installed to reduce traffic and pollution, and more citizens are riding bikes and walking. In the olden days our cities were designed by cars for cars. Nowadays our cities are being designed, redesigned, and improved for the people who live there - citizens. Many communities throughout the world have decreased their reliance on the personal car, have promoted transit options, and have enhanced their urban environment by reducing traffic, congestion, pollution, and the number and width of their roadways. Many citizens in cities throughout the world don't even need a car, since so many other transit options are available to them. The 40 best practice case studies contained in this volume are from 33 states and provinces in 19 countries located on six continents - from all over the world! Each best practice case study contains the official name of the municipality, it's latest population figure, the region it is located in, the province or state that it is located in, the common name of the country that it is located in, the official name of the country that it is located in, and the community's official website.

Over the past several decades, numerous planning movements have taken root within the United States. With names like "Urban Renewal," "Garden Cities," "Healthy Cities," "Smart Growth," "Eco-Cities" and "Sustainability," these programs promote ways to create, protect, preserve, enhance, and restore the quality of life in cities, towns and suburbs, especially in regards to the natural environment. This guide to the best practices of these programs introduces the rapidly evolving field before presenting more than 40 case studies of communities that are effectively "going green." An assessment of the future of these towns and cities and resources for citizens and officials seeking additional information conclude the work. By compiling these success stories, this handbook makes an excellent resource for anyone seeking to facilitate the restoration of the natural environment within their community.

This volume is based on an international literature search of the best urban planning practices being used in cities throughout the world. The best practices from dozens of cities are described in detail. Such topics as green technology, conservation, infrastructure maintenance, alternative energy, downtown business districts, and recycling are covered, with many others. Additional information is provided for each community used as a case study, including their population, geographical location, and website. There are eight appendices: a periodicals bibliography, a glossary, a list of acronyms and abbreviations, a state municipal league directory, a national planning and development resource directory, an international planning and development resource directory, an international local government resource directory and a state library resource directory, as well as a thorough index.