Kansas City Hosts Urban Design Dialogues

The local chapter of the American Institute of Architects is raising public awareness about the role of urban design through a series of public events -- including tours, open forums, and an awards program.

"As Kansas City reconstructs downtown and its urban image, local architects say it's time to get smarter about putting the pieces together. And how that happens may determine how people today and in the future feel about the city's multibillion-dollar urban renaissance."

"Architects want more people to see and understand what's good and bad about issues that affect them: how streets and public spaces work; how building design contributes to the human pulse of a city; and how zoning and other public policies should help shape a livable, vibrant city."

The AIA effort is timed with an overhaul of the city's zoning codes.