The Congress for the New Urbanism (CNU) held its annual Congress in Cincinnati May 15th – 18th, drawing over 1,400 urbanists from around the country to discuss walkable, sustainable communities. 

Many GOPC friends and colleagues were there, which was great to see! 

Kicking off with an opening party on the newly redesigned Court Street Plaza, the week was filled with sessions, tours, and events for anyone interested in planning, design, and development of cities. Cincinnati’s Over-the-Rhine neighborhood was a big draw, as it boasts one of the largest collections of Italianate architecture in the nation.  

30 tours took attendees out of the hotel and into the neighborhoods, exploring different types of urbanism including Over-the-Rhine, Covington, Mariemont, and Evans Farm.  

Cincinnati Mayor Aftab Pureval delivered Thursday’s keynote address, speaking about the issues facing his city and their strategies to address housing and affordability, including the city’s ambitious Connected Communities zoning plan. Friday morning, the plan passed through planning commission, prompting Cincinnati urbanists to celebrate with the CNU visitors.  

The Queen City was proud to host so many talented and forward-thinking professionals as part of CNU’s 32nd Congress. The city gained valuable insights and best practices, while also providing lessons to other communities in return. Thank you to all who attended!