Asia Mieleszko

Asia (pronounced “ah-sha”) Mieleszko serves as a Staff Writer for Strong Towns. A dilettante urbanist since adolescence, she’s excited to convert a lifetime of ad-hoc volunteerism into a career. Her unconventional background includes directing a Ukrainian folk choir, pioneering synaesthetic performances, photographing festivals, designing websites, teaching, and ghostwriting. She can be found wherever Wi-Fi is reliable, typically along Amtrak’s Northeast Corridor.

Articles by Asia Mieleszko

Pointless Parking Mandates Almost Killed a Food Hall in Pittsburgh

When the owners of Lawrence Hall bought the abandoned building, they had a vision of reviving it into a food hall that would support small businesses and help their community thrive. They never imagined that a few parking spots would put their dream on hold for seven years.

Parking
Pointless Parking Mandates Almost Killed a Food Hall in Pittsburgh
How Muskegon, MI, Is Building Hundreds of Homes on Vacant Lots

Like so many places, Muskegon, MI, has a shortage of housing and a surplus of vacant lots. That’s why it’s enacted a program that allows it to redevelop those lots into affordable housing—at a low risk to the city. 

Housing
How Muskegon, MI, Is Building Hundreds of Homes on Vacant Lots
A Walk in Hoboken: What Makes It Different?

Hoboken, NJ, has gained fame online for its safe streets. But does this urbanist’s paradise live up to the hype, in person? We sent Strong Towns Staff Writer Asia Mieleszko to do some on-the-ground investigating to find out.

Streets
A Walk in Hoboken: What Makes It Different?
Dallas Used To Be Walkable

Dallas wasn't built for the car: it was paved over for it. This new bill can help it rebuild.

Streets
Dallas Used To Be Walkable
The Mayor Who Tried to Stop a Highway

When Mike McGinn didn’t see any other mayoral candidates challenging a proposed highway expansion project in Seattle, he stepped up to the plate and won the election. This is the story of his ensuing fight to stop his city from making a costly mistake.

Highways
The Mayor Who Tried to Stop a Highway