The skyscrapers that NIMBYs and zoning couldn't stop

The skyscrapers that NIMBYs and zoning couldn't stop

From Planet Money by NPR

March 28, 2026 · 22 min

About this episode

This episode explores how the Squamish Nation reclaimed urban land and navigated zoning restrictions amidst opposition from wealthy neighbors.

LIVE SHOW TOUR INFO HERE. New stories, live tapings, special guests, book signings and more. What would you build on a piece of land when all the normal rules go out the window? On today’s show, how the Squamish Nation reclaimed a sliver of prime urban real estate and were liberated from zoning restrictions, to the consternation of their wealthy NIMBY neighbors. We trace the 100 year saga of what might be the most interesting real estate development in North America right now: There’s a violent eviction, a tense legal battle, and a giant, tough decision for the Squamish Nation that culminates in the daring project that they’re building today. It’s a story with lessons for every city trying to lower housing costs and build more. This episode is adapted from Planet Money: A Guide To The Economic Forces That Shape Your Life . Pre-order before April 7 and you can get a poster. Details here . The working paper we mentioned on “ready-to-issue” permits in Los Angeles. Subscribe to Planet Money+ Listen free: Apple Podcasts , Spotify , the NPR app or anywhere you get podcasts. Facebook / Instagram / TikTok / Our weekly Newsletter . This episode was produced by Sam Yellowhorse Kesler with…

People in this episode

Hosts: Sam Yellowhorse Kesler, Alex Goldmark

Topics covered

  • real estate development
  • zoning restrictions
  • housing costs
  • urban planning
  • NIMBYism
  • legal battles

Keywords

  • Squamish Nation
  • real estate
  • zoning
  • NIMBY
  • housing
  • urban development
  • legal issues
  • eviction
  • city planning

Mentioned in this episode

Organizations: Squamish Nation

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