We just wrapped up our first conference and luncheon of the season – Building a Smart, Livable Winnipeg for the 21st Century morning conference, and Livable Cities for the 21st Century luncheon – which took place on Wednesday, Sept. 19, at The Fort Garry Hotel to sold-out crowds of more than 600 people.

#WCCLivableCities ‘Building a Smart, Livable Winnipeg for the 21st Century morning conference built incredible momentum for Winnipeg’s future. The conference featured a panel discussion and eight keynote speakers, including former Winnipeg Mayor, Glen Murray.

#WCCLivableCities luncheon ‘Livable Cities for the 21st Century’ featured world-renowned architect, Jan Gehl of Gehl Architects, who hooked the crowd with his relatable perspectives on similar cities and world-renowned projects including New York’s Times Square; Moscow, Russia; Sydney, Australia; and more .

The conference and luncheon was a truly inspiring day for attendees – one that sparked change and showed the benefits of putting people first when it comes to city planning.

3 KEY TAKE-AWAYS FROM #WCCLIVABLECITIES:

1. Build cities for people, not for buildings and cars.
2. Building high-density neighbourhoods creates healthy, vibrant, affordable and sustainable cities.
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3. Winnipeg needs to have a city planning strategy – one that encourages physical activity and prioritizes sustainability.

E.g. Jan Gehl shared Coppenhagen’s strategy: “Come out of your house. Leave your screens behind. Walk the streets. Meet people. Communicate directly. Walk. Be safe. Enjoy.”