Opinion Piece Calls for New U.S. Cities Modeled on Founders' Ideals

An opinion article published by ZeroHedge on May 23, 2026, advocates for a "MadeCity" approach to urban planning. The article, originally written by Charles Ma for RealClearPolicy, argues that new cities should be intentionally designed around faith, freedom, and entrepreneurship.

, as the preferred location to begin such a project. It states that transforming the capital would restore public confidence and serve as a visible example of the principles held by the nation's founders.

The article lists Thomas Jefferson, John Adams, Alexander Hamilton, James Madison, Benjamin Franklin, and George Washington as examples of individuals who combined statesmanship with commercial and inventive activity. It notes that these figures helped establish cities including New York, Philadelphia, and Boston.

The article also cites Ryan Higgins, who is described as a descendant of one of the founding families. Higgins states that his ancestor Richard Higgins arrived in 1623 seeking a society based on faith, family, and community. S. " It describes MadeCities as places where residential, commercial, cultural, legal, and religious elements are coordinated to promote human flourishing.

The piece links the proposal to the upcoming 250th anniversary of the United States. It concludes that government has a constitutional role but cannot substitute for private initiative in creating new urban environments.