Media

At a time when there is a growing interest in promoting the concept of livability, the Festival convenes a panel of experts from around the United States to ask what it is that defines a “livable city,” addressing the complex interplay of economics, ecology, transportation systems, politics and social relations as they concern urban residents.  What are the ideas and trends shaping cities today, and how might communities move towards re-imagining their priorities in the interests of livability?  Carol Coletta is an expert on urban issues and the host of Smart City on National Public Radio; Ethan Seltzer is professor of Urban Studies and Planning at Portland State University and former president of the City Planning Commission in Portland, Oregon; Ben Berkowitz is the chief executive of "SeeClickFix", an innovative advocacy website that encourages communication between neighborhood residents and local government. Panel to be moderated by Anne Haynes, Executive Director, EDC New Haven, Economic Development Corporation of New Haven.