Dr. Dutta-Koehler moderates Urban Seminar at BU Initiative on Cities

Momentum from the Imagine Boston 2030 (IB2030) planning process was heightened at Boston University’s Initiative on Cities Urban Seminar –  Sharing Visions, Shaping Cities – held on April 4, 2016.

Madhu C. Dutta-Koehler, Associate Professor of the Practice and Program Coordinator, City Planning and Urban Affairs, Boston University, moderated a panel comprised of city leaders and field professionals who were gathered to unpack visions and develop measures to shape Boston in 2030. Panelists included Sara Myerson, Director of Planning, Boston Redevelopment Authority and Executive Director, Imagine Boston 2030; Matthew Littell, Principal at Utile; Renee Loth, Editor, ArchitectureBoston; and Rami el Samahy, Adjunct Professor of City Planning and Urban Affairs, Boston University, and Principal at over,under.

Panelists outlined factors critical to a successful city plan and discussed the principal goals and proper design of the plan.  Common goals received through public engagement included better housing and transportation options and an improved education system.  The Seminar explored how Boston’s continued population and job growth could actually help address these three major concerns.

“If we want to grow, we need to grow in those places in between neighborhoods, the railyards, and highways” said Littell.

Visions to improve transit, housing, education, and social inclusion will be placed into long-term strategies paired with specific action steps.   Sara Myerson concluded that IB2030 will be a living document that will undergo continuous revisions and amendments over time to reflect the changing dynamics of the City.