Change has always been constant, but the current pace of technological innovation is especially profound. We are experiencing the compounding influence of multiple converging trends — from Uber and Lyft trips, real-time trip planning, and shared micromobility, to Amazon Prime same-day deliveries, grocery and restaurant couriers, driverless taxis, and much more. We want these new innovations to make our streets safer, make mobility more equitable, and improve public health outcomes. In order to achieve this, we need to be ready to act now and across disciplines.
To advance the conversation, the Urbanism Next Center at the University of Oregon and Alta Planning + Design, along with Oregon Metro and Spirit for Change Consulting, recently hosted a one-day workshop in Portland, Oregon to explore the intersection of technology, urban space and placemaking with support from the Knight Foundation. We brought together a variety of people — some whose work is directly focused on technological change and others whose work is not. We’re excited to share the final report from the meeting.
Download the Future of Public Spaces and Placemaking Report