Below is a compilation of the world’s largest cities with only three letters in their names. These cities represent a total of 35 nations. Interestingly, none of the cities on the list are from the United States, Canada, Australia, or the United Kingdom. Japan has the highest representation with 15 cities, followed by Nigeria with seven. To be included on the list, cities needed to have a minimum core population of 50,000 residents, excluding the surrounding metropolitan area. Peace!
Back in the 1990s, the Smashing Pumpkins were among the elite rock bands rotating on MTV. They also released one of the most infectious and enjoyable tunes of the decade with “1979.” Since the turn of the century, their starlit trajectory has waned some through turmoil, time, and changes in musical tastes. That’s why it is so exciting to listen to their new album entitled Atum: A Rock Opera in Three Acts (pronounced like autumn) – their first new release since 2020.
Source: smashingpumpkins.com
This is not to say the Smashing Pumpkins were necessarily just idly standing by, for Billy Corgan was still penning lyrics and pushing other interests. As a result of this effort, Atum contains a mind-blowing 33 tracks across three disk. Yes, you read that correctly, 33 freaking new songs!
Well, Atum was fully release a few weeks ago and this blog author must say that despite it is extraordinary length (that I don’t mind), the album is excellent. There are few songs that don’t fall into my musical style choices, but there is enough variety and complexity to please most any listener.
Here are my favorite tracks off the record listed alphabetical order (top seven picks in bold):
“Avalanche”
“Butterfly Suite”
“Cenotaph”
“Embracer”
“Every Morning”
“Fireflies” – “Cause some dreams do survive”
“Space Age”
“Spellingbinding”
“Springtimes”
“To the Grays”
“Where Rain Must Fall”
Whether or not you were a fan of the Smashing Pumpkins in the 1990s or have been ever since, this album should be listened to for its depth, beauty, and lyrical insight. One does have to wonder if the title of this masterful record is symbolic as the band’s career and three founding members are traversing into the autumn of their lives.
In anticipation of preparing this post, it was never imagined that it would take more than a week of research/compilation and that there would be so many examples across the United States and Canada. In fact, this is the first such place name post published on panethos.wordpress.com that has examples coming from all 50 states and all 10 provinces. The only letters of the alphabet not represented on the list at the beginning of a city/town name are the letters “x” and “z.”
Source: kwcf.can
The most common names (by number of states and provinces) that end in two matching letters are:
Waterloo = 13
Lowell and Marshall = 11 each
Pleasant Hill = 10
Dundee, Oak Hill, and Russell = 9 each
Bartlett = 8
DeWitt, Mitchell, and Rose Hill = 7 each
Inverness, Kimball, Prescott, and Spring Hill = 6 each
Source: pinterest.com
The term “hill” resulted in the most entries on the list. And there are actually a handful of three-letter cities/towns included on the list. They are:
Bee, Nebraska and Oklahoma
Lee, Massachusetts and New Hampshire
Opp, Alabama
Lastly, the largest city on the list is Milwaukee, Wisconsin.
Peace…and enjoy the lengthy list provided below.
Source: visitmilwaukee.org
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Abbott, Iowa, Texas
Abee, Alberta
Adell, Wisconsin
Albee, South Dakota
Alburnett, Iowa
Alto Pass, Illinois
Alwinn, Oklahoma
Amagansett, New York
Amulree, Ontario
Anderson Mill, Texas
Anness, Kansas
Apple Hill, Ontario
Aransas Pass, Texas
Arbor Hill, Iowa
Archer Will, Saskatchewan
Ash Hill, North Carolina
Aspinwall, Iowa and Pennsylvania
Austell, Georgia
Austwell, Texas
Averill, Vermont
Axtell, Kansas, Nebraska
Ayer’s Cliff, Quebec
Babb, Montana
Bacliff, Texas
Badger Lee, Oklahoma
Babbitt, Minnesota
Bagnall, Ontario
Bagwell, Texas
Bakerhill, Alabama
Baldhill, Oklahoma
Ballyduff, Ontario
Balsom Hill, Ontario
Banff, Alberta
Banner Hill, Tennessee
Baraboo, Wisconsin
Bardwell, Kentucky
Barnhill, Ohio
Barnwell, South Carolina
Barronett, Wisconsin
Barrell, Iowa
Barrett, Texas
Bartlett, Illinois, Iowa, Kansas, Nebraska, New Hampshire, Oklahoma, Tennessee, Texas
Bassett, Arkansas, Iowa, Kansas, Nebraska
Bear Grass, North Carolina
Beaverdell, British Columbia
Beaver Hill, Oregon
Beckett, New Jersey, Oklahoma
Bee, Nebraska, Oklahoma
Bell, Florida, Oklahoma
Bellamys Hill, Ontario
Bell Hill, Washington
Bennett, Colorado, Iowa
Bergoo, West Virginia
Berry Hill, Tennessee
Bethel Hill, North Carolina
Bible Hill, Nova Scotia
Bicknell, Indiana, Utah
Bidwell, Ohio, Ontario
Big Shell, Saskatchewan
Birch Hill, Wisconsin
Birch Tree, Missouri
Bidell, Ontario
Bisbee, Arizona
Blackwell, Texas
Blasdell, New York
Blakeslee, Ohio
Blennerhassett, West Virginia
Blewett, British Columbia
Bliss, New York
Blodgett, Missouri, Oregon
Blucher Hall, British Columbia
Blue Ball, Pennsylvania
Blue Bell, Pennsylvania
Blue Berry Hill, Texas
Blue Hill, Maine, Nebraska
Bluewell, West Virginia
Bluff, Oklahoma, Utah
Bonnet Hill, British Columbia
Boones Mill, Virginia
Boss, Oklahoma
Boswell, British Columbia
Bothell, Washington
Bothwell, Ontario
Boulder Hill, Illinois
Bradwell, Saskatchewan
Bragg, Texas
Braintree, Massachusetts
Braswell, Georgia
Brewster Hill, New York
Briarcliff, Arkansas, Texas
Brier Hill, Ontario
Brinckerhoff, New York
Britt, Ontario
Broadwell, Illinois
Brock Hall, Maryland
Broomall, Pennsylvania
Browndell, Texas
Brownell, Kansas
Brownlee, Nebraska, Saskatchewan
Brucewell, Iowa
Brusett, Montana
Bruch Hill, Oklahoma
Bulpitt, Illinois
Buckhall, Virginia
Bucknell, Iowa
Budd, Iowa
Bunker Hill, Indiana, Kansas, Ontario, Oregon
Bunk Foss, Washington
Bunn, North Carolina
Bunnell, Florida
Burdett, Alberta, Kansas, New York
Burgess, Missouri
Burkburnett, Texas
Burkett, Texas
Burnett, Wisconsin
Burpee, Ontario
Burr, Nebraska
Burstall, Saskatachewan
Burwell, Oklahoma
Bushnell, Florida, Illinois, Nebraska, South Dakota
Byrnes Mill, Missouri
Cadott, Wisconsin
Calahoo, Alberta
Caldwell, Arkansas, Idaho, Iowa, New Jersey, North Carolina, Texas
Whitehall, Montana, New York, Ohio, Pennsylvania, Wisconsin
Whitsett, North Carolina, Texas
Whitt, Texas
Whitwell, Tennessee
Wickett, Texas
Willacoochee, Georgia
Willow Hill, Illinois
Wilsall, Montana
Winding Cypress, Florida
Winfall, North Carolina
Winn, Maine
Winnett, Montana
Withee, Wisconsin
Witherbee, New York
Wolcott, Connecticut, Indiana, New York,
Woodruff, Kansas, South Carolina, Utah, Wisconsin
Woodhull, Illinois
Wounded Knee, South Dakota
Woxhall, Pennsylvania
Wrangell, Alaska
Wrenshall, Minnesota
Wynantskill, New York
Wyatt, Indiana, Missouri, North Carolina
Yamhill, Oregon
Yankee Hill, Nebraska
Yellow Bluff, Alabama
Yellow Grass, Saskatchewan
Yemassee, South Carolina
Source: leechamber.org
SOURCES:
en.wikipedia.org for cities, towns, villages, hamlets, unincorporated communities, localities, municipalities, tribal communities, and census-designated places for each state and/or province and territory
chat.openai.com – not very helpful as it could not understand the data I was trying to collect
It has been fascinating to watch the vast variety of plants burst forth with they spring time blossoms here in New Mexico’s High Desert environment for the first time. Below are a series of photographs from the past week showing the amazing array of colors. Anyone who states a desert is dull and lifeless either doesn’t know what they are talking about or has never been to one in the spring. Peace!
I wish I had discovered my passion for peak hiking earlier in life. Not realizing it until my early 60s has left me with less time to explore summits than I would have preferred. Despite the delay, the rewards often outweigh the nagging aches and pains along the way. Whether it’s a breathtaking vista, the sighting of a new bird for my life list, encounters with bighorn sheep, mesmerizing cloud formations, or simply the meditative sound of a mountain breeze through a forest, there’s something about reaching the top of a hill, dune, ridge, bluff, or mountain that soothes one’s innermost soul. I can’t quite put my finger on it, but these climbs seem to increase serotonin levels, leaving me exhilarated by the challenge and allowing life’s little annoyances to fade into the recesses of my mind. I truly feel at peace upon a mountaintop.
Sandia Mountains of central New Mexico
Sometimes my thoughts wander to the possibility of embarking on longer treks at my age. As someone who has never been fond of the idea of rugged back-country camping, I find myself surprisingly intrigued by the idea of hiking for multiple days and weeks to complete a significant trek. One that most frequently comes to mind is the Colorado Trail—a journey of approximately 486 miles between Denver and Durango (longer if you hike the whole loop in the middle), characterized by an average elevation of 10,300 feet and more than 89,000 feet of elevation gain throughout its mountain-studded course.
*A small commission is earned from purchases that are made using the above link to Amazon. As an Amazon Associate, I earn from qualifying purchases.
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Given that I have only conquered two peaks above 10,000 feet thus far, this goal may seem ambitious. Nevertheless, my mind continues to wander there, especially since a trip to Durango in April and reading the captivating chronicle of a family of five who took on the Colorado Trail in 2016. Uphill Both Ways: Hiking Towards Happiness on the Colorado Trail is a remarkable read that resonated with me not only because it showcases the wonders of the Colorado Trail, but also due to its honest portrayal of the trek, highlighting its many challenges, hardships, and rewards.
Source: pmags.com
In her book, author Andrea Lani presents an intimate portrait of their long-distance hike, viewing it not solely as personal/group accomplishment, but also as a means of seeking healing and solace from the trials and tribulations of daily life. In places the Colorado Trail succeeds, while in others it fails…often the result of past human actions or current human behavior. Both the positive and negative aspects are described in vivid detail.
Cerro Cuarte in central New Mexico
Ms. Lani’s book has helped inspire me to contemplate stepping out of my usual comfort zone and embarking on a long trek. This is in spite of the anticipated pains, intestinal discomforts, griminess, annoyances, foul weather potential, and persistent fear that I may be incapable of completing, or worse, surviving such an endeavor intact. Fear has too often dictated my actions or inactions for many years, but perhaps it’s time to overcome those demons that have held me back.
View from the Sacramento Mountain of southern New Mexico
Only time will tell, but I want to express my gratitude to Andrea Lani and the 200+ peaks I have conquered thus far on day hikes (dutifully recorded on peakery.com) for at least opening my eyes to the possibility of attempting such a feat. For that, I am eternally grateful. Peace and happy hiking!
View from the Jemez Mountains of northern New Mexico
Provided below are lists of favorite and least favorite state capital cities across the country. These are based on impressions obtained from visiting and in some cases, living in those cities (Indianapolis, Columbus, and Lansing). The list is not based on an entirely inclusive of all 50 state capitals, as there are eight (8) state capital cities that have not been visited to date. These are Carson City, NV; Dover, DE; Frankfort, KY; Helena, MT; Honolulu, HI; Olympia, WA; Salem, OR; and Tallahassee, FL.
While it may be considered old-fashioned, a capital city should never be ordinary. It should possess symbolism, inspire awe, and exude elegance, particularly in terms of its location, design, impression, style, and the overall appearance of its government buildings. It is also beneficial for the city to have other civic features such as a prominent university, parks, and museums, ideally arranged in a coordinated manner.
Beyond those attributes, the capital city should represent the people of that state in a manner that depicts pride in their state and city. Otherwise, one can come away with quite the opposite impression. A capital city that is excessively industrial, dreary, polluted, or that lacks distinctiveness cannot hope to inspire residents nor politicians to aspire to (or achieve) greatness.
BEST
Santa Fe, New Mexico – Santa Fe is a city that is universally admired. Nestled at the base of the majestic Sangre de Cristo Mountains, it radiates an irresistible charm, exemplifying a perfect blend of style, grace, and rich cultural heritage. With its breathtaking adobe architecture and captivating history, Santa Fe captivates visitors and residents alike.
The city embraces a low-rise aesthetic, allowing its natural surroundings to take center stage. One cannot help but be captivated by the abundance of museums in Santa Fe, offering a trove of art and knowledge. Additionally, the city proudly boasts the distinction of being home to the sole circular state house in the entire nation, further adding to its unique appeal.
Where else would you expect to find such an enchanting city? The Land of Enchantment, of course!
New Mexico State Capitol – Source: gettyimages.com
Santa Fe – Source: farolito.com
2. Albany, New York – The state capitol complex in Albany is remarkable, leaving a lasting positive impression with its eye-catching architecture and commanding presence. Perched atop a vantage point, it offers a breathtaking view of the majestic Hudson River, enhancing the city’s overall allure even further.
Albany’s equally impressive State University of New York (SUNY) campus also contributes to the city’s reputation as a place of architectural splendor and educational distinction.
Albany – Source: istockphoto.com
3. Madison, Wisconsin – A beautiful isthmus location set between two crystal blue lakes. Madison is definitely the handsomest capital city in the Great Lakes Region. Its combination of natural beauty and educational prominence through the University of Wisconsin, creates a thriving and dynamic atmosphere for governmental and intellectual pursuits.
Madison embodies the perfect blend of scenic splendor and educational advancement, making it a truly exceptional capital city.
Madison with Frank Lloyd.Wright’s Monona Terrace in the foreground. – Source: midwestliving.com
4. Annapolis, Maryland – A charming colonial city nestled on the shores of Chesapeake Bay, Annapolis evokes a sense of history and tranquility. Its low-rise buildings and preserved colonial architecture transport visitors to a bygone era. Notably, Annapolis is home to the prestigious Naval Academy, adding to its significance and patriotic spirit.
While facing the potential threat of urban sprawl from neighboring Washington, D.C. and Baltimore, Annapolis has managed to retain its unique character and allure. Taking a leisurely walk through the city is akin to embarking on a journey through time. The city’s compactness adds to its appeal, as it encourages delightful exploration on foot.
Annapolis – Source: reddit.com
5. Boston, Massachusetts – Boston, similar to Annapolis but on a significantly larger scale, seems to effortlessly combine its size with an incredible charm. This vibrant city remains remarkably walkable, inviting residents and visitors to explore its streets and immerse themselves in its undeniable appeal.
Boston boasts a thriving downtown area, with its lively atmosphere and numerous attractions. The iconic Boston Common serves as a central gathering place, drawing people from all walks of life. The city is also home to a multitude of prestigious universities and museums, enriching the intellectual and cultural fabric of the area.
The city exudes a distinct character, characterized by its unique neighborhoods, each with its own charm and personality. Boston has managed to strike a perfect balance as a metropolis that retains its grandeur while offering a welcoming and inviting atmosphere.
Overall, Boston has successfully crafted a recipe for a thriving big city that maintains its dignified allure and sense of identity. Its ability to evolve while embracing its rich history is truly commendable.
Boston – Source: google.com (original source unknown)
6. Salt Lake City, Utah – Bookended by the majestic Wasatch Range on the east and the Great Salt Lake to the west, Salt Lake City boasts breathtaking vistas throughout. The capital complex is beautifully positioned, slightly removed from the downtown area, allowing for an impressive backdrop of stunning mountains. This picturesque setting lends an air of grandeur to both the capitol building itself and the entire city.
Adding to the city’s allure, is the iconic Mormon Temple, a striking architectural masterpiece that captivates visitors with its elegance and significance. Furthermore, the presence of the University of Utah infuses the Salt Lake City with an extra dose of vibrancy and intellectual energy.
Salt Lake City – Source: axionimages.com
7. Jefferson City, Missouri – Located just a bit off the beaten path, Jefferson City may not be in the forefront of popular tourist destinations, but its scenic beauty and picturesque charm make it a hidden gem. The Missouri State Capitol, perched atop a small hill, commands a breathtaking view of the Missouri River, further accentuating the beauty of both the building itself and the entire city.
Much like low-rise Santa Fe and Annapolis, Jefferson City allows the government edifices to take center stage and shine. The architectural splendor of the government buildings is given prominence against the backdrop of the city’s natural surroundings. Embarking on the road less traveled to visit Jefferson City can be a rewarding detour from the dull sameness of the Interstate Highways.
Jefferson City – Source: remax-midstates.com
Jefferson City – Source: theodessyonline.com
8. Boise, Idaho – Boise offers a captivating blend of natural splendor and urban environment. The city’s location amidst the Rocky Mountains, coupled with its notable capitol complex, makes it a destination that leaves a lasting impression on those who visit the city.
Boise – Source: capitalcitiesusa.org
9. Harrisburg, Pennsylvania – Harrisburg’s revival, coupled with its picturesque site overlooking the Susquehanna River and the magnificence of the capitol complex, makes it a capital city that commands attention. With its blend of natural beauty and architectural splendor, Harrisburg offers a renewed vibrancy that is worthy of exploration and appreciation.
Harrisburg – Source: reddit.com
10. Oklahoma City, Oklahoma – Oklahoma City has made remarkable strides in revitalizing its image and enhancing the quality of life following the tragic 1995 Federal Building bombing. The city’s efforts in revitalization and rejuvenation have yielded impressive results. The downtown area, particularly the vibrant Bricktown district, stands as a testament to their success.
The presence of the University of Oklahoma in nearby Norman adds to the city’s cultural and educational landscape. Additionally, Oklahoma City boasts numerous museums and cultural sites, offering residents and visitors opportunities for enrichment, entertainment, and enjoyment.
Bricktown Canal District in Oklahoma City – Source: okc.gov
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WORST
Jackson, Mississippi – The ongoing actions of the Mississippi legislature have unfortunately had a negative impact on the appeal of Jackson, the state’s capital city. Rather than serving as a showplace that depicts the best aspects of the state, the decisions and policies implemented by the legislature have led to a decline in the city’s image and desirability. It is important for leaders to prioritize the well-being of their capital cities, ensuring they serve as beacons of prosperity, innovation, and civic pride. Sadly, in the case of Jackson, the current situation highlights the need for a more positive and constructive governing, one that nurtures and uplifts the city rather than driving it into the ground.
2. Baton Rouge, Louisiana – Despite being a state capital city and home to a major university (Louisiana State University), is difficult to find Baton Rouge visually appealing. The presence of numerous oil refineries and related industries in and around the city and its environs tends to overshadow the attributes of city.
3. Trenton, New Jersey – Trenton is unique in the fact that it is the only state capital city located at/on the border with another state (Pennsylvania). Despite its presence on the Delaware River and witness to important historical events, to date Trenton has not moved forward in a manner that sets it apart as an inspiring capital city.
4. Springfield, Illinois – While Lincoln’s legacy and the preservation efforts of the National Park Service around his home are commendable, it is essential for a capital city to continually strive for progress, innovation, and a thriving urban environment. It is natural to desire to see a balance between honoring historical figures and fostering a dynamic and engaging cityscape. To date, Springfield has moved little beyond Mr. Lincoln himself.
5. Charleston, West Virginia – Charleston sits along a narrow river valley and boasts a truly beautiful capital building. However, the city’s overall charm is significantly diminished by the presence of numerous chemical factories that line the river valley.
6. Concord, New Hampshire – Kinda just there. Nothing noteworthy or outstanding to make Concord move off this list.
7. Juneau, Alaska – Though located in a lovely natural setting, Juneau has difficulty overcoming an isolated location that is tough to reach – boat or airplane are the only options. Any state capital building and/or capital city should be reasonably accessible to all the residents of the state. Otherwise, the public’s ability to oversee their own government is significantly eroded.
8. Cheyenne, Wyoming – Unremarkable. Perhaps that says it all. Also, it’s totally split in two by railroads. While railroads were critical to development of the city and the American West, a capital city should be more…much more that what Cheyenne has achieved to date.
9. Austin, Texas – Like several other capital cities, such as Nashville, Denver, Columbus, Boise, Indianapolis, and Raleigh, Austin is experiencing the challenges that come with rapid growth. This often brings about changes that can impact the city’s original identity, charm, and unique character. And in Austin’s case, it’s weirdness.
Cities that undergo significant population increases and development may face what could be referred to as the “Phoenix or Atlanta syndrome.” This phenomenon refers to the potential loss of a city’s original identity and distinctiveness as it becomes overwhelmed by booming growth and its associated changes.
While rapid growth brings economic opportunities and attracts newcomers, it can also lead to a myriad of challenges such as increased traffic, rising costs of living, and the potential loss of the city’s original charm. Austin is definitely facing a “crisis of charm” at this moment.
10. Lansing, Michigan – The presence of numerous surface parking lots surrounding the capitol complex in Lansing detracts from its overall appeal. Additionally, the city is dotted with the remnants and makeovers of former manufacturing plants, as well as a continued industrial vibe/presence. This can contribute to a less-than-picturesque impression, especially to visitors.
By contrast, neighboring East Lansing is often regarded as more visually appealing and boasts a more pleasant visual appearance. The city benefits from its association with Michigan State University (MSU) and the vibrancy that comes with a thriving college town.
Given Michigan’s abundant vistas and beautiful lakes throughout the state, one could easily question the choice of Lansing as the state capital. It certainly is far afield from the Upper Peninsula. Perhaps a more scenic and northerly location could have been selected, that better reflected the natural splendor that all of Michigan has to offer. Given that scenario is quite unlikely to occur, both the city and state should better strive to make Lansing more visually appealing throughout the city, not just in certain areas like Old Town, the Stadium District, and REO Town.
A continuación se enumeran las ciudades y pueblos de América Latina que tienen nombres religiosos, pero no incluyen San, Sao, Santa o Santo en su nombre. Esto también sería no tener Saint en su nombre en inglés o francés. Como se puede ver en la lista, hay bastantes ciudades que cumplen con los criterios, lo que representa 22 de las 33 naciones de América Latina y el Caribe. Los términos comunes incluyen ascensión, Belén, concepción, cruz, Jesús, natividad, rosario, salvador y trinidad.
Listed below are those cities and towns in Latin America that have religious names, but do not include San, Sao, Santa, or Santo in their name. This would also not having Saint in their name in English or French. As can be seen from the list, there are quite a few cities that meet the criteria, representing 22 of the 33 nations in Latin America/Caribbean. Common terms includeascension, Bethlehem, conception, cross, Jesus, nativity, rosary, savior, and trinity.
Rosario, Argentina – Source: 3.bp.blogspot.com
Como siempre, todas las adiciones, correcciones o sugerencias son bienvenidas para que la lista sea lo más completa posible. Las ciudades más grandes se muestran en negrita. Paz!
As always, any additions, corrections, or suggestions are most welcome to make the list as complete as possible. Larger cities are shown in bold. Peace!
The following are ten planning lessons from the quartet of amazing Detroit area suburban cities situated along the famous Woodward Corridor, home of the annual Dream Cruise each August. Those four Southeast Michigan cities are Birmingham, Ferndale, Pontiac, and Royal Oak.
Sure: freep.com
While much of suburban Detroit consists of bland tract housing and sprawl, the cities along the Woodward Corridor are among an increasing number of places in metropolitan Detroit that actively practice exceptional urban planning techniques including increased densities, adaptive reuse, mixed uses, walkability, back-in parking, landscaping treatments, and community placemaking efforts.
Birmingham, Michigan boasts one of the most lively and pedestrian-friendly downtown areas for a smaller city in the Midwest. Its favorable urban layout can be attributed in part to the fact that modern Woodward Avenue bypasses the downtown by only a few blocks, allowing for a more compact and navigable city center, especially for pedestrians and bicyclists.
Royal Oak and Ferndale also possess charming and thriving downtown districts, which have been hampered to some extent by the presence of overly-broad roadways bisecting their respective centers. In Ferndale, the culprit is Woodward Avenue, while in Royal Oak, Main Street has posed a similar challenge.
Main Street in Royal Oak should be relatively easy to adjust by applying both tactical and permanent road diet techniques. There seems to be little or no need for Main Street to be so broad through the downtown area.
Downtown Royal Oak looking along Main Street – Source: detroitinternetmarketing.com
Meanwhile, Ferndale is presently working with the Michigan Department of Transportation (MDOT) to improve cross-Woodward Corridor movement through its downtown area by means of the “Ferndale Moves” program. Mobility improvements along the Woodward Corridor include the following:
Resurfacing of Woodward from 8 Mile to the northern Ferndale city limit
The reduction of a travel lane on each side of Woodward
Targeted improvements to curbs
Shortening of pedestrian crossings
Parking-protected bike lanes
Improved visibility at intersections
Accessible curb ramps
Bus islands
Drainage improvements
Source: romi.gov
To enhance vibrancy of their downtown areas and promote local commerce, Royal Oak and Ferndale have implemented creative concepts that permit customers to move freely between dining, entertainment, shopping, and drinking establishments while carrying their drinks. In Royal Oak, this concept is identified as the city’s “Social District,” while Ferndale has established a “Patio Zone” that serves the same function. These forward-thinking initiatives have injected fresh vitality into these communities and help generate higher foot traffic for nearby businesses.
Source: downtownferndale.com
Ferndale, at the southeast end of the Woodward Corridor, has been traditionally been more affordable than either Royal Oak or Birmingham. Maintaining Ferndale’s delightfully funky and eclectic character along with its affordability is critical. Meanwhile, at the opposite end of the Woodward Corridor, Pontiac hopes to generate new development/redevelopment to revitalize the city’s core and nearby residential neighborhoods through re-establishment of two-way traffic on the Woodward Loop around downtown utilizing pedestrian-friendly landscaped boulevards.
Source: funkyferndaleartfair.com
A commuter rail line along the Amtrak corridor between downtown Detroit and Pontiac would be an excellent addition to the local and regional transportation network, while also allowing for intermodal linkages within and between each community.
During these troubling times when political and media-generated hostility towards minority groups, including the LGBTQ+ community, is pervasive, it was heartening to witness “Drag Queen Bingo” being played in a bustling venue in downtown Royal Oak. It is crucial to understand that any attempt to segregate or exclude particular segments of the community can have detrimental effects on the overall health and welfare of the community as a whole.
Source: google.com
The Woodward Dream Cruise featuring more than 40,000 classic, vintage, and unique designer motor vehicles is an excellent example of multiple communities (nine) working together to present an Americana spectacle over an exciting summer weekend that is enjoyed by more than 1.5 million attendees.
Dream Cruise cars on display in Ferndale – Source: allevents.in
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If the Woodward Dream Cruise intrigues you, here are two books on the subject that are available through Amazon.com.*
For a little fun on a Friday, the following list identifies those cities and towns around the globe whose name (or a portion thereof) ends with the pronunciation of “go.” Geographically, there are 23 nations represented on the list, as well as 23 states. Several very large cities are included, such as Chicago, Illinois; Santiago, Chile; San Diego, California; and Durango, Mexico.
As always, any additions, corrections, or suggestions are most welcome. Peace!
Source: stickerart.com
Antigo, WI, USA
Argo, AL, USA
Chicago, IL, USA
Chicago Heights, IL, USA
Chicago Park, CA, USA
Chicago Ridge, IL, USA
Chisago City, MN, USA
Congo Town, Bahamas – added 5/13/23
Diego Martin, Trinidad & Tobago
Dingo, Australia – added 5/13/23
Durango, CO, USA
Durango, IA, USA
Durango, Mexico
Durango, Spain (2)
East Chicago, IN, USA
East Chicago Heights, IL, USA – renamed Ford Heights, IL, USA
The following are 12 planning lessons learned from America’s Interstate Highway System. Just as the network continues to expand with the addition of new routes such as I-11 in Nevada and Arizona, I-14 in Texas, I-42 and I-87 in North Carolina, and other future corridors, this list could be much, much longer. However, in the interest of time and brevity, here are your top dozen.
In the end, one has to ask if the Interstates have essentially become “Roads to Nowhere” because of the bland quick-serve monoculture they leave behind in their wake? Peace!
Source: azdot.gov
Utilizing Interstates for urban renewal and so-called “slum clearance” was one of the greatest urban tragedies of the 20th Century. Is it any wonder that trust is so lacking still today?
How and where freeways were/are located has been and continues to be very much a race, class, and equity issue.
Building freeways through the heart of cities rips apart the very fabric of the adjoining neighborhoods and inundates the residents with noise, glare, and pollution. One finds it hard to imagine the benefits of these highways have outweighed the detriments of obliterating large parts of our cities.
Source: milwaukeeindependent.com
No future Interstate Highway should be built through the heart of a city and those that have been should be removed and/or redesigned in a manner which compliments the existing tapestry of the city.
A freeway cap is often just a bandaid on a gushing wound. Furthermore, they tend to most benefit the wealthy instead of those adversely impacted when the freeway was first built.
Being bypassed by an Interstate often spelled disaster for many small towns and their business community. Meanwhile, being completely missed by the Interstate Highway System actually proved to be a blessing for many remote and scenic cities/places like Jackson Hole, Bar Harbor, Durango, Steamboat Springs, Bisbee, Kalispell, Traverse City, Lake Placid, Key West, and many more.
Some highway departments prefer to stay addicted to the false-fix of ever-widening freeways rather than seek alternative solutions to congestion.
26 lane wide I-10/Katy Freeway in Houston – Source: reddit.com
Between the makeshift memorials and the signed dedications to lost loved ones, our nation’s highway system, including the Interstates, have begun to look like an elongated graveyard of sorrow.
Don’t build more freeways until the states find mechanisms to properly maintain what they currently have.
“Road to Nowhere” – Source: pinterest.com
Building an Interstate, even to nowhere, is akin to extending water and sewer lines – “If you build it, they will come!”
Source: consumeerenergyalliance.org
Some states like North Carolina seem to sprout new Interstate Highways like weeds. One wonders, at what point will enough be enough?
The Interstate Highway System was a remarkable engineering achievement for its time. In the 21st century, however, a bold new vision for our national transportation network is needed — one that is based on the needs of all citizens, not just those who drive.
problogic
Panethos 
