For millions who grew up in the suburbs or spent their working lives on endless highways commuting to and from, "Get Urban!" is a practical self-help guide to transforming your lifestyle - from a complacent suburbanite to an exhilarated urban dweller. City planner and dedicated urban dweller, Kyle Ezell is determined to bring people back to America s urban centers where life is diverse and convenient. After travelling throughout the U.S. doing urban reconnaissance, he has identified 34 exciting cities that have the settings, ambiance, architecture, housing choices, and opportunities you crave - without the expense. He ll help you determine your "urban personality" - from sleek post-industrial cultural community to gracious historic garden neighborhood; from diverse, trendy arts area to "blank canvas" neighborhoods in need of a rescue - and match your wants, needs, and aspirations to the urban setting you crave. Then learn urban survival skills, including searching for a city home, "schlepping," dealing with the threat of crime, preparing for unique urban weather conditions, blending into your new neighborhood, even how to walk again. More than 300 photographs, charts, quizzes, and maps make "Get Urban" an illustrated journey deep inside America s revitalizing inner cities and a preview of what you can expect if you dare to make the move to an exhilarating urban lifestyle.
Founder of Get Urban America, Ltd. a Columbus, Ohio-based city planning firm dedicated to growing downtowns and intown neighborhoods. Faculty, City and Regional Planning Program at The Ohio State University.
Books:
Get Urban! The Complete Guide to City Living, Capital Books, Inc. 2004
Retire Downtown: The Lifestyle Destination for Active Retirees and Empty Nesters, Andrews McMeel Publishing, Fall 2006
