Canadian Urban Planner Compares City Development in Russia and the USA

Urban environment should be developed in a way that it is convenient for all residents. Therefore, the first rule in creating a successful metropolis is common sense. This was stated by the Toronto mayoral candidate in 2022, one of the 100 most influential urban planners in the world, Gil Penalosa.

At the BRICS Future of Cities Forum "Cloud Cities", a participant in the session "Green Infrastructure in BRICS Cities" noted that modern metropolises are adapting to the needs of 30-year-old residents. Thus, the authorities create bicycle paths, new parking spaces, and build highways.

"We have an 8-year-old child and 80-year-old parents. Most likely, you will worry about their safety if you send them to the park across the intersection or put them on a bicycle. What if we adapt the entire infrastructure for 8-year-olds and 80-year-olds? It will become convenient not only for them, but also for others," -emphasized urban planner Gil Penalosa.

At the same time, the expert continued, the population in Russia and China fully satisfies their needs, but this does not apply to other countries. For example, in Moscow and Kazan, the government initiates the creation of park areas in all areas of the city, the development of infrastructure within walking distance, which cannot be said about US metropolises.

"A good city is one where even a child on a tricycle can safely get to any point. In our time, people live longer and longer, but it is important not just to live, but to move. Another important element is that everything in the city should be within walking distance. In addition, every resident needs nature. To do this, you need to create small and large parks," - the expert concluded.

As part of the BRICS Cloud Cities Forum, which takes place from September 18 to 19 at the Zaryadye Concert Hall in Moscow, experts and participants are discussing innovations, the introduction of artificial intelligence and augmented reality technologies in urban solutions, and successes in creating cloud services. At the venue, guests of the event can get acquainted with various projects. Thus, Moscow presented its developments in terms of supporting innovative entrepreneurship and startups.

This year, the BRICS Green Cities conference, organized by the Moscow Government, is being held for the first time at the Forum venue. Russian and foreign experts will share their experience on how to overcome modern challenges and integrate green innovations into the life of cities. Excursion programs are also organized for foreign delegations. As part of this project, participants will be able to get acquainted with the technological achievements of the Russian capital.

Now on home