Ten Ways Covid-19 Changed America’s Cities—Or Maybe Not

The COVID-19 pandemic has had diverse and uneven impacts on U.S. cities. While cities like New York and San Francisco continue to struggle, others such as Austin and Phoenix have shown resilience and recovery. The pandemic exposed and, in some cases, exacerbated existing urban challenges, including housing affordability, crime rates, and public transit usage. Looking ahead to 2030, the report suggests that urban areas must adapt to these changes by rethinking planning and management strategies. Urban planners and policymakers face significant challenges, such as addressing increases in crime and reusing vacant office spaces, which will require innovative and bold approaches. Additionally, longstanding issues like restrictive housing policies will need new coalitions and unpopular decisions to be effectively managed. The report emphasizes the need for cities to leverage their strengths and resources to navigate these challenges, promoting sustainable and inclusive growth through strategic planning and collaborative efforts.