A couple of things I wanted to tell everyone about: First, Austin Bike Blog joined the Streetsblog Network a month or so ago, which is “a national blog network focused on sustainable transport, smart growth and livable streets issues.” They have officially launched now, and already have 160 member blogs. We’re very happy to be participating.

Second, because were are on the email list for the Streetsblog Network, I was sent the David Brooks column from today’s New York Times and I have to say I am absolutely astonished. Read it! Here’s a snippet:

Second, the Obama stimulus plan could help localities create suburban town squares. Many communities are trying to build focal points. The stimulus plan could build charter schools, pre-K centers, national service centers and other such programs around new civic hubs.

This kind of stimulus would be consistent with Obama’s campaign, which was all about bringing Americans together in new ways. It would help maintain the social capital that’s about to be decimated by the economic downturn.

Surprising to be coming from a conservative columnist, I’d say. It sounds very much like this message is breaking through. This is even more reason to organize, by doings things like signing the Transportation for America Petition.

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