July 2009 | Table of Contents

Contents from the print magazine, with links to selected articles and columns posted online. Learn more about subscribing.

Features

Special Report: A Greater Grid


Desert Storm
Solar, wind and geothermal energy are the future. But environmentalists are fighting over whether miles of new power lines are needed.
By John Buntin

Get Smart
Technology is ready to change how electricity is delivered. But are consumers ready to use—and pay for—the smart grid?
By Tom Arrandale

Laura Chick Is Watching

What will it take to keep a state’s oversight of its federal windfall honest? California’s new stimulus boss is sure she knows.

By Rob Gurwitt

Shortfall Shock

This year was a tough test for state budget writers. Next year will be a harder one.

By Alan Greenblatt

The Costliest Ride

Transportation service for the disabled can be a budget-buster.

By Josh Goodman


Departments

Letters

From the Publisher

Assessments

Alan Ehrenhalt on governors-in-waiting.


Politics + Policy

Observer

• A compromise on coal-fired power plants
• Cleaning up California's budget mess
• Taxes for trains

Potomac Chronicle

Is devolution dead?

At Issue

Bankruptcy trumps car dealers’ clout in state legislatures.

Ballot Box

• A former governor tries for a comeback
• Vacuum in Oakland

Health

When the end of life is the start of a health-cost nightmare.

Economic Engines

Adding value in manufacturing.

Urban Notebook

It’s high time for New York’s High Line.

Green Government

A superbarrel changes the dimensions of water use.


Problem Solver

Hold that Hire

As the economy recovers, states will be challenged to retain their newest employees.

By Will Wilson

Smart Management

Why measuring performance matters more than ever.

Idea Center

Controlling campus noise, and other ideas to use.

Tech Talk

How states are milking cell-phone users with 911 fees.

Public Money

Will Build America Bonds take over the muni market?

Player

Mike Bennett: A developer’s kind of legislator.