Urban Age in Our Suburban Nation

That is the title of a recent presentation by Bruce Katz from the Brookings Institute. Here is the essence of his remarks:

"The late 20th Century was the age of economic globalization. The first part of the 21st century will be the age of the city, the 'Urban Age'.... The design of the built environment, the distribution of urban density, and their impacts on social inclusion and the quality of life, are at the forefront of political discussion in towns and cities across the globe."

Is an Urban Age possible in our suburban nation?

-Competitive cites that create and nurture strong, resilient, adaptive economies.

-Sustainable cities that promote accessible transport, residential and employment density and energy efficiency.

-Inclusive cities that grow, attract, and retain the middle class and integrate individuals across racial, ethnic and class lines.

-Physical cities where the built environment—neighborhood design, the architecture of private and public space—is a critical foundation of competitiveness, sustainability and inclusivity.

More here.