Y Combinator, a startup accelerator and investment firm that helped produce Airbnb and Dropbox has turned its attention to urban planning.
The firm plans to solicit proposals for research into construction methods, power sources, driverless cars, and even examine concepts of zoning and property rights. The project’s intent is to develop ways to reduce housing expenses by 90% and to develop a city code of laws simple enough to fit on 100 pages of text.
The project would eventually produce a prototype city. Initial applications are due July 30, and researchers may be hired this year. The firm is already thinking about possible locations, according to reports.
If plans unfold successfully, the project would be a showcase for new urban policy ideas.
Related Stories
Urban Planning | Feb 9, 2016
Winners named in 'reinventing Paris' competition
Architects submitted projects that redeveloped key parts of the city and incorporated green space features.
Urban Planning | Feb 2, 2016
Report identifies 600 cities that will drive economic growth through 2025
Of them, 440 are in emerging economies in China, South Asia, and Southeast Asia.
Urban Planning | Jan 21, 2016
Anders Berensson Architects re-imagines Stockholm as a city of skywalks
The Swedish firm’s "Klarastaden" plan connects the city via clear skyways that weave in and around the city’s buildings.
Urban Planning | Jan 19, 2016
Cities are booming, but do they have what it takes to sustain growth?
While cities are creating new jobs and attracting new residents, there are warning signs that suggest this current urban boom lacks the necessary sustainability that comes with focusing on the macro issues of community, affordibility, and displacement, writes Gensler’s Peter Weingarten.
Urban Planning | Jan 4, 2016
The next boomtown? Construction and redevelopment sizzle in San Diego
The city's emission-reduction plan could drive influx into downtown
Urban Planning | Dec 21, 2015
Addressing urban density with design
How does success in managing density begin? By being design friendly to everyone, writes Jessica K. Lucyshyn of GS&P.
Urban Planning | Dec 7, 2015
Handbook for design, construction, maintenance of permeable pavements released
Supports sustainable solution to stormwater and urban runoff.