Skip to Content
Streetsblog New York City home
Streetsblog New York City home
Log In
Talking Headways Podcast

Talking Headways Podcast: Les Rues Are Made for Walking

Last week, Smart Growth America brought us the bad news: More than 47,000 people died while walking between 2003 and 2012. Most victims are killed on high-speed arterial roads. A disproportionate number are elderly or racial minorities.

Paris showed us a powerful solution: The city is lowering its default speed limit to 30 kilometers per hour, or about 18 mph. Speed limits are already set at that level on about a third of the city's streets. That's good policy, and one cities around the world should be following.

Meanwhile, the New York Times informed us that as the housing market recovers, the vast majority of new construction is made up of multi-family housing -- a major shift from the over-production of single-family homes that lasted for decades.

In this episode, Jeff and I process all of that and more. Find holes in our analysis in the comments. And don't miss an episode: Subscribe on iTunes or Stitcher or by signing up for our RSS feed.

And lastly, our spring pledge drive ends on Sunday and we haven't yet hit our goal of reaching 400 donors. Donate today! Your support makes this podcast happen!

Stay in touch

Sign up for our free newsletter

More from Streetsblog New York City

Lawmakers Raise Doubts About Hochul’s Insurance Proposal

The governor's Uber-backed insurance plan is leaving state lawmakers unsure of its effect on crash victims and high auto premiums.

February 27, 2026

‘Broadway Vision’: City Will Revamp Six More Blocks By 2031

The facelift will cost more than $150 million.

February 27, 2026

Mamdani Falls Short of Campaign Pledge to Expand Open Streets Funding Amid Budget Crunch

The mayor's proposed budget does not expand Open Streets — and raises lots of questions.

February 27, 2026

Friday Video: Why Everyone Drives SUVs

Rollie Williams at Climate Town is back, this time explaining the "light-truck loophole."

February 27, 2026

Friday’s Headlines: Undermined at Every Turn Edition

Does the mayor run NYPD and FDNY, or is it the other way around? Plus more news.

February 27, 2026

Mamdani’s FDNY Spews Anti-Street Safety Talking Points at Bizarre Council Hearing

FDNY and DOT were at cross-purposes during a bikelash Council hearing.

February 26, 2026
See all posts