As long as people live in cities,
Urban Design Matters.
Urban design surrounds and sustains city life. It combines the time-tested principles and innovative ideas that enable vibrant growth. It invites people to visit, start businesses, and invest in neighborhoods. And by design, it connects people to places and each other.
Urban design brings us together
Connection is vital for people to realize their full potential. The same is true for our city. We must consider the interconnectedness of our neighborhoods and citizens, so that we can design with every component in mind. Because when all of these elements are working as a system, the result is a community that truly connects people, places, and opportunity.
“Good design is not an after thought. It is instead the glue that creates great places.”
– Jan Gehl
Connected
Urban design enables our city to thrive
It doesn’t simply matter that a city grows; it matters how a city grows. Successful cities have the vision to look beyond the short-term, and rely upon leadership which addresses the needs of today while laying the groundwork for a greater tomorrow. Such places are highly responsive to the needs of their citizens, and lead to a built environment that enables all to flourish.
“Placemaking in the twenty-first century must have as its intentional focus the reassertions of shared community and prosperity.”
– Bruce Katz
Thriving
Urban Design Creates Places That People Value
As it turns out, human beings are excellent judges of urban character. We tend to seek out the one that makes us feel at ease, safe, happy and full of life. We instinctively value those places that affirm our humanity, and we return to them often. That’s the power of urban design.
“Cultures and climates differ all over the world, but people are the same. They’ll gather in public if you give them a good place to do it.”
– Jan Gehl
Vibrant
Get Involved
Cities evolve according to the diverse needs and desires of their citizens. To reach our greatest potential, we need you to participate in shaping the metro’s future. Check out the many ways to join us in building a more vibrant, livable city for all.
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