Perspective

How Car-Clogged Houston Could Be a Climate Policy Leader

Houston’s infamous lack of zoning could become a climate-policy asset as the sprawling Texas metropolis attempts to steer a more sustainable course.
Cyclists in Buffalo Bayou Park in downtown Houston. The Texas city has recently adopted an ambitious climate and mass transit plan.Sharon Steinmann/Bloomberg

April was supposed to be a big month for Houston city planning. America’s largest unzoned city was poised to host the American Planning Association’s national convention for the first time, bringing thousands of attendees to town. Walking tours were arranged; awkward cocktail mixers were scheduled.

Of course, with a global outbreak of the coronavirus, it wasn’t meant to be.