● How to lead a transformation that evokes urban resilience by uniting nature, people and the city; through city-wide strategies, as well as on-the ground placemaking interventions?
● How to activate waterfronts for both vibrancy and restoration, that dually consider local resources?
● How can we recover polluted and industrial areas with green and blue solutions while creating inclusive, sustainable and environmentally sensitive green spaces?
● How to engage in collaborative planning to implement an effective city of proximity in Europe?
● How can an effective, transparent and low-threshold collaboration between local government and community help to activate the public space to its fullest potential?
● How can placemaking help innovation, attract new talents and expand economic opportunity for all and what mechanisms should be implemented to make sure not to push out local economic activity?
● What mechanisms should be put in place to ensure that urban innovation truly benefits the local economy and does not crowd it out?
● How can placemaking help innovation, attract new talents and expand economic opportunity for all and what mechanisms should be implemented to make sure not to push out local economic activity?
● What mechanisms should be put in place to ensure that urban innovation truly benefits the local economy and does not crowd it out?
Beginning in 1999, the City of Pontevedra adopted a new city model that aimed to shift attention from private motorised vehicles to the city’s pedestrians. The city council went about banning all but essential traffic, and promoted journeys by foot, bicycle or public transport. The city suppressed indiscriminate parking in central streets – through infrastructure blockades, policies, and programming of activities – thereby cutting down immensely on inner-city traffic jams. Impressively, the city has already reached their 2030 climate action goals, and as such, has significantly improved public health through reduced traffic casualties and increased sustainable habits for physical and mental health.
