Strong contrasts between powerful natural forces and a dramatic built environment provide inspiration for the future shape of the region.

Dodson Associates, in collaboration with regional planner Robert Yaro, urban designer Jonathan Barnett and architect Robert Geddes, developed design principles for fifteen typical metropolitan landscapes. These principles were then illustrated using representative urban, suburban and rural sites throughout the three-state region. The regional design principles and illustrations will become a central part of RPA's third regional plan, to be completed over the next several years.

Typical small city center suffers from economic decline, spread of parking lots, loss of historic buildings, reduction of rail service.
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Recommended improvements include restoration of quality rail service, infill of vacant lots with new buildings that fit in with the city's historic character, creation of small parks and pedestrian squares, construction of parking garages.
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