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

Talking Headways Podcast: Pattern Cities and the Bellbottoms of Urbanism

podcast icon logo
false

This week we talk to Mike Lydon of The Street Plans Collaborative and co-author of the recent book Tactical Urbanism. Based on his experience with tactical urbanism, Mike says you know an idea has "made it" when it gets co-opted for things that don’t fit the actual definition. We also discuss how to take a small planning idea and make it bigger, and whether urbanism goes through cycles like fashion, with ideas from the past coming back into style.

Tune in and get the scoop on tactical urbanism stories from Boston; Ponderay, Idaho; and Hamilton, Ontario. Hear what Mike has to say about the importance of having people interact with real places during the public planning process, and about pattern cities -- places that have spawned a good idea that other places have copied.

Stay in touch

Sign up for our free newsletter

More from Streetsblog New York City

SHAMEFUL: Pro-Parking DOT ‘Forced’ Lawmakers To Scale Back Daylighting Bill, Says Queens Pol

A parking-first City Hall has thrown up road blocks against pedestrian safety.

November 13, 2025

House T&I Chair Vows ‘No Money for Bikes or Walking’ in Fed Transportation Bill

The outlook for active transportation won't be good if advocates don't stand up.

November 13, 2025

Is Rad Power Bikes Riding into the Sunset?

The Seattle-based e-bike giant may close. It's a big deal for employees and customers.

November 13, 2025

Thursday’s Headlines: Seeing Daylighting Clearly Edition

Hats off to Frank Morano, a Republican from car-dominated Staten Island, who can see the basic logic behind the Council's effort to require daylighting at every intersection in the city. Plus other news.

November 13, 2025

Wednesday’s Headlines: Slow ‘Em Down Edition

Here's one day when it's OK for reporters to drive a car! (OK, not just any car.) Plus other news.

November 12, 2025
See all posts