Our edition, themed ‘Radical Cities,’ plunges into groundbreaking perspectives on urban planning and policy. A collection of transformative initiatives, pioneering policies, and unconventional urban experiments have etched an enduring mark on our cityscapes. At a time when New York City’s municipal government is diving headfirst into neoliberal budget cuts that meet the needs of the urban growth machine, exploring radical solutions to modern cities’ challenges is a refreshing alternative. Navigating the dynamic tapestry of urban history, our contributors traverse visionary community-led projects to sustainable development strategies, dissecting how cities can defy traditional norms and embrace radical urbanization.
Woven seamlessly into this edition are six feature articles, each offering a unique take on radical urban themes and enriching our ongoing conversation:
Annie Deely’s What’s So Gay About Gardening? challenges preconceived notions of urban gardening, showcasing how unconventional practices contribute to the vibrancy of city life.
Daniela Finlay’s Pedaling Together: Exploring Bike Buses as Safe, Sustainable, and Social Commuting for Children embodies the essence of radical urban transportation, offering an innovative perspective on safe and communal commuting.
Brittany Jeffery’s Post-Dobbs, a Radical Web of ‘Abortion Infrastructure’ Springs Up Under, Across and Through Borders, explores how cities adapt and create unconventional networks in response to changing legal landscapes, a testament to urban resilience.
Dimitris Koutoumbas’ Beyond the Bench: Hartford’s Grassroots Movement for Better Public Transit exemplifies community-led initiatives challenging traditional urban norms, fostering a grassroots movement for improved public transit.
Sidney Lok’s Creating Inclusive Urban Futures: A Case Study on Dementia-Friendly Singapore showcases a city at the forefront of inclusive design, reimagining urban spaces to accommodate diverse needs and demographics.
David Oke’s The Case for Rails, Trails, and Dwellings for the Working Class advocates for urban infrastructure that addresses the needs of the working class, presenting a radical vision for inclusive urban development.
These articles promise a diverse and compelling exploration of radical urban themes, seamlessly fitting into our overarching narrative of reshaping cities for a dynamic and inclusive future.
Jenn Hendricks & Katelin Penner, Co-Editors in Chief
