State and local bond sales are projected to reach $400 billion in 2024, a 7% increase from 2023, driven by infrastructure investments. Municipal bonds, which fund over 70% of state and local infrastructure projects, are expected to remain a reliable revenue source despite potential challenges from interest rate trends, investor demand, and economic conditions. Experts highlight the importance of municipal bonds for city financing and the potential impact of federal interest rate cuts on the market. However, high interest rates and broader economic trends may pose challenges for city leaders in attracting investors and managing costs.

Light installations in U.S. cities are being used by local nonprofits, tourism offices, and business groups to increase foot traffic, promote safety, and foster community engagement. These installations, often tied to holidays, are part of a broader movement to integrate public art with urban design. Examples include Austin's Creek Show, Washington, D.C.'s Georgetown Glow, and Pigeon Forge's Winterfest. These events not only enhance local cultural identities but also provide economic benefits and year-round tourism opportunities. Organizers report growing interest from other cities looking to replicate their success.

At least a dozen U.S. cities have launched basic income pilot programs recently, with about 100 such initiatives now active in North America. These pilots, supported by federal funding and a focus on economic and racial equity, aim to provide unconditional cash payments to residents. Early results from cities like Stockton show improved mental health and financial stability among recipients. However, challenges remain, such as legal issues in Pittsburgh and funding hurdles in San Francisco. Advocates hope these city-level pilots will pave the way for state or federal basic income policies.

The affordable housing shortage in U.S. cities has reached a crisis level, according to a panel discussion tied to the Harvard Joint Center for Housing Studies’ annual report. Panelists recommend zoning reform, denser housing development, and policies to lower costs for home buyers and renters. The report highlights challenges such as high interest rates and a surge in homelessness. Successful state-level initiatives in California and Massachusetts are cited as examples. Bipartisan cooperation and collaboration between states and cities are deemed essential for addressing the crisis. Federal support includes an $85 million grant program for zoning reform and affordable housing planning.

The American Public Transportation Association reports significant workforce shortages among transit agencies, exacerbated by an aging workforce, competitive job market, and increased service demands. The Utah Transit Authority (UTA) has successfully revamped its hiring process, reducing the gap between hiring and start dates, and offering more flexible onboarding. Despite improvements, high turnover remains a challenge. The Federal Transit Administration's strategic plan emphasizes outreach and recruitment, while the Transit Workforce Center advises on workforce development. Future transit roles may evolve with technological advancements, requiring new skill sets.

Urban planning from nearly a century ago in Austin, Texas, cost Black homeowners over $290 million, according to a city-commissioned study. The study, part of a broader movement among U.S. cities to address racial gaps in wealth and homeownership, highlights the legacy of racist housing policies. Local advocates aim to use the data to pressure the city to invest in resources for Black entrepreneurs and residents. Other cities like Evanston and Providence are also taking steps to address these issues, though efforts face criticism and challenges. Experts emphasize the need for targeted measures from federal and state governments to combat these pervasive issues.

The COVID-19 pandemic disrupted a decade of economic expansion and inclusive growth in major U.S. metropolitan areas, particularly those with over 1 million people. A Brookings Institution report found that smaller metro areas with populations between 500,000 and 1 million performed better on inclusive growth measures such as wage gains and racial and economic inclusion. The report categorized metro areas based on their performance during the pandemic, with many large cities like New York City, Los Angeles, San Francisco, and Atlanta being 'tested' by the pandemic. Smaller metro areas like Cleveland, Sacramento, and Dallas showed strong inclusive growth. The findings highlight the importance of a holistic approach to measuring economic success beyond traditional metrics like jobs and GDP.

The MOVE Culver City pilot program aimed to make non-car transit safer by adding bike and bus lanes, leading to increased bus ridership, cycling, and pedestrian activity. Despite support from over 30 organizations, the City Council voted to scale back the project due to traffic concerns, disappointing sustainable transportation advocates. The decision highlights the challenges of implementing such projects, including public resistance to change and the need for better communication. Advocates remain committed to promoting transit-friendly neighborhoods, while city staff plan a second phase of the pilot on another street.

A new Morning Consult/Politico survey indicates that a majority of voters believe the Supreme Court should not overturn Roe v. Wade, despite a leaked draft suggesting the court plans to do so. The draft opinion has sparked calls for congressional action to codify abortion rights, though confidence in Congress's ability to pass such legislation is low. The potential ruling could significantly impact abortion access across the United States, with many states poised to ban it outright. The issue is expected to play a significant role in the upcoming midterm elections, with Democrats and Republicans divided on the importance of supporting candidates based on their stance on abortion.

The Denver City Council has allocated $2 million from the American Rescue Plan Act funds to support the Denver Basic Income Project, which aims to provide cash assistance to 820 homeless individuals and families for one year. The project, led by the Denver Department of Housing Stability, is part of the city's 'housing first' strategy to combat homelessness. The initiative is particularly focused on women, transgender, and gender-nonconforming individuals. This effort is part of a broader trend of U.S. cities piloting cash assistance programs to address homelessness and economic instability exacerbated by the pandemic.