In the mid-1800's, the canal system in the U.S. was thriving. But, by the end of that century, roads and railways had replaced these commercial thoroughfares. Renewed interest in the abandoned canals is now resulting in renovation and ecological site development in Pennsylvania and New Jersey. (MA)

This article compares two approaches to regional planning. In San Francisco, a citizen-initiated supra-agency was organized to prevent overdevelop ment of the coastline. The New York coastline, developed by one man, Robert Moses, is now victim of an inadequate and inefficient system of development that ecologically threatens the area. (MA)

For years, American riverfronts have been shaped by the shippers and merchants who used them. Now, when more, easily accessible space is needed for living and leisure activities, developers in Memphis, Austin, and Los Angeles are beginning to look once again to the riverfront for a solution. (MA)