Issue 578 / Fall 2025
Issue 578 Urbanist Cover

We Heart Government

We’re Not Waiting to Be Included

In East San José, a model of local governance shifts decision-making to those closest to the challenges — and the solutions.

In East San José, a model of local governance shifts decision-making to those closest to the challenges — and the solutions.
JESSICA PAZ-CEDILLOS

Governing Across Boundaries

How a collaborative approach to governance can bridge the region’s complex systems — and address its challenges

How a collaborative approach to governance can bridge the region’s complex systems — and address its challenges
NICOLE NEDITCH

Achieving Transit Accountability in California

As the state government is asked to commit more resources to locally controlled transit agencies, thinking strategically about accountability can help ensure that California’s riders and taxpayers get their money’s worth.

As the state government is asked to commit more resources to locally controlled transit agencies, thinking strategically about accountability can help ensure that California’s riders and taxpayers get their money’s worth.
SEBASTIAN PETTY

Building Relationships to Build Housing

How five years of advocacy at the state and local levels is turning the tide in favor of new housing

How five years of advocacy at the state and local levels is turning the tide in favor of new housing.
ERIKA McLITUS

A New Governance Model for Downtown Revitalization

How can Bay Area cities be empowered to reinvent themselves without repeating the mistakes of urban renewal?

How can Bay Area cities be empowered to reinvent themselves without repeating the mistakes of urban renewal?
SUJATA SRIVASTAVA

Governing Adaptation

Why the Bay Area needs regional action on sea level rise

Across the Bay Area, several promising governance structures are already demonstrating how communities can work together on legally mandated subregional shoreline adaptation plans.
SARAH ATKINSON