As cities experience increases in urban population and residents return to downtown areas, public officials and the communities they serve are looking for creative approaches to improve quality of life, create economic opportunities, and provide for vital amenities, like open space for recreation and outdoor activities—all while enhancing and protecting the natural environment. While this collaboration takes many forms, there are three areas where CDM is driving changes to create the sustainable infrastructure and environmental improvements that distinguish cities of the future:
Singapore: Singapore's already dramatic city center will become more visitor friendly when the Marina Barrage project is completed. (pdf)
New Orleans: Urban metabolism is helping New Orleans identify multi-benefit strategies for reconstruction, environmental sustainability, and disaster protection. (pdf)
New Bedford: Wastewater treatment plant expansion integrates recreational and educational improvements for New Bedford's Taber Park. (pdf)
Fort Worth: Fort Worth's downtown is experiencing a renaissance thanks to a new bypass channel, the removal of levees, and a new master plan for the Trinity River. (pdf)
Philadelphia: Philadelphia's watershed-based approach to CSO control helps ensure water quality while minimizing capital costs. (pdf)
Wichita: The landmark Gilbert and Mosley groundwater remediation project cleans up the environment while educating the community. (pdf)
Chicago: Use attainability analysis results are setting the foundation for a strategic plan to further improve water quality in the Chicago area. (pdf)
Denver: Ten years after beginning to revitalize the South Platte River, Denver continues to benefit from this initiative. (pdf)
Mississippi Gulf Coast: By showcasing energy technologies, the Powering Renewal Initiative’s goal is to demonstrate the desirability and viability of renewable energy. (pdf)
Los Angeles: A city-wide integrated resources plan creates a holistic, sustainable vision for L.A.'s water resources. (pdf)
Wayne County: Less pollution, more fish, and enhanced recreation prove the Rouge River National Wet Weather Demonstration Project was a success. (pdf)
Read why city planners are embracing form based codes to promote smart growth, recover unused urban landscapes, and achieve aesthetic and lifestyle goals for citizens. »
The landscape architect's role is not simply to provide a planting plan, but to lead the strategic assessment of a site's potential to meet community needs. »
Paul Brown talks about urban sustainability, balancing environmental values and economic opportunities, and cities of the future. »
Edens Lost & Found, a PBS four-part series, profiles four communities implementing practical, sustainable solutions to urban challenges. CDM sponsored the program's production and community outreach as a corporate underwriter.
Produced in conjunction with Edens Lost & Found, CDM has developed three short videos that profile how CDM is partnering with communities to implement sustainable solutions that improve the environment and infrastructure.