CNU 33 Recap
Written By: Amanda Viale
Two weeks ago, Ashley, Aaron, and I traveled to the vibrant city of Providence, Rhode Island for the Congress for the New Urbanism’s annual gathering—CNU33. Providence last hosted the congress in 2006, and since then, the city has undergone a remarkable transformation. In less than two decades, it has introduced city-wide bike lanes, revitalized its waterfront with new parks and public art programs, and constructed an award-winning pedestrian bridge—all of which contribute to a city that feels active, welcoming, and full of life.
On our first evening, we strolled along the riverside and were struck by the energy: people gathering, dancing, dining, and biking—an atmosphere hard to imagine even ten years ago. In 2013, I-95 still ran through the heart of the city, and much of the river was obscured or inaccessible due to pollution. A $610 million infrastructure project rerouted the highway and simultaneously addressed flood risk and unlocked 20 acres of downtown real estate. Today, the five granite piers that once supported the elevated highway now hold a wide pedestrian bridge, spacious enough for crowds, art installations, and performances. Lush gardens, terraces, and green spaces flank the riverbanks—spaces that people truly want to inhabit.
Thursday brought one of the highlights of our trip: an e-bike tour of West Broadway, a historic neighborhood that’s been stewarded by a unique collaboration of three partners—a neighborhood association, a revolving fund, and both for-profit and nonprofit developers—working together for over 40 years. What stood out most was their grassroots approach: a small group of committed people identified challenges and created thoughtful, lasting solutions. Their revitalization efforts prioritize inclusion, intentionally working to avoid resident displacement. Touring their completed projects, from restored homes and small parks to thriving local businesses, showed how intentional design and community collaboration can lead to authentic, vibrant neighborhoods.
Friday and Saturday offered a packed schedule of sessions, more great food, and plenty of inspiring conversations.
Other trip highlights included:
· Thought-provoking sessions on the “missing middle” and strategies to tackle housing shortages
· An open house at Union Studio
· Lunch at Ellie’s (delicious!)
· A tour of cottage courts in Greenwich, RI
· “Running with the Urbanists,” hosted by Active Towns
· Dinner at Persimmon
· Scootering around the city
· A tour of the Providence park system
· A watercolor demonstration in the park
· Energizing conversations with designers, planners, and advocates from around the country
Until next time CNU!