Skip to Content
Streetsblog USA home
Streetsblog USA home
Log In
Friday Video

Friday Video: Would Our Cities Be Better Off Without Public Hearings?

Is the way America does public hearings making our cities more democratic, or obstructing the kinds of human-centered projects we need most?

Photo: Still from About Here

For obvious reasons, a lot of sustainable transportation advocates are re-focusing their energies on a local level right now and strategizing about how to give more people opportunity stop live to walkable, transit-rich neighborhoods — no matter what Washington is doing. And that's why there's no better time than the present to confront one of the most stubborn barriers to new housing, in-neighborhood services, bike lanes, bus lanes and more: the infamous public hearing.

In the latest video from the excellent Canadian series "About Here," host and urban planner Uytae Lee unpacks why public meetings seem so important on paper — not least because of the legacy of destructive highway projects that didn't require them — but end up being so undemocratic in reality. And then, he suggests a better process that might actually represent the will of the people, rather than just the handful of cranky neighbors who have the time, energy, and privilege to show up ... or the politicians who often ignore them anyway.

It's a great video (and check out the blink-and-you'll-miss-it shot of Friend of Streetsblog and "War On Cars" podcast host Doug Gordon getting shoved at 3:41.)

Stay in touch

Sign up for our free newsletter

More from Streetsblog USA

Advocates: Here’s What to Tell The Feds You Want From the Next Big Transportation Bill

You only have two more days to comment on the next surface transportation bill (the biggie!). So here are some thoughts about what you should say.

August 18, 2025

Monday’s Headlines Are Lukewarm, Neither Hot Nor Cold

Do micromobility devices that can reach speeds of up to 20 miles per hour, or even 60, belong on sidewalks, in bike lanes, on streets with cars or somewhere else?

August 18, 2025

Talking Headways Podcast: The Powerless Brokers

Colin Parent of Circulate San Diego on why California can't build transit.

August 15, 2025

Friday’s Free-Range Headlines

Bad drivers and giant trucks are ruining our children's childhoods, and more parents are speaking out.

August 15, 2025

‘A Tombstone’: Abandoned Bicycles Outside Federal Courthouse Are a Symbol of U.S. War on Immigrants

At least four bicycles and one moped are chained up and seemingly abandoned outside NYC's federal courthouse. They are symbols of America's war on immigrants.

August 15, 2025

Friday Video: The Ingredients of a Truly Great Street

This short film offers a recipe for a great right of way, and a wealth of inspiration for communities to design for people.

August 15, 2025
See all posts