The Congress for the New Urbanism (CNU) has just launched an interactive forum to allow its members (and those interested in the work of CNU) to share their ideas for next year's Congress. The annual Congress is the leading venue for new urbanist networking, collaboration, and education. CNU members come from far and wide to discuss development practices and public policies, learn from recent innovative work, and advance new initiatives to transform our communities.

The new interactive forum allows users to submit ideas for people they would like to see, sessions they would like to attend, and goals they would like to see the Congress achieve. The goal of the new platform is to create a transparent and open forum where users share, refine, and receive feedback on ideas.

CNU 19 Call for Input: http://cnu19.ideascale.com
Growing Local Tracks: http://www.cnu.org/cnu19/tracks
The Congress for the New Urbanism: http://www.cnu.org

What is CNU 19?

Drawing on the close relationship Madison has with its agricultural neighbors, CNU 19 will build on the theme of "Growing Local". The conference will explore linkages that urban communities have with local food production, the food economy and the infrastructure that has developed around this symbiosis. It's not just about growing food though.

The conference will extend the "Growing Local" theme to include the nurturing of non-agricultural local economies and local connections - from Madison's burgeoning bicycle industry and bike culture to its commitment to community involvement and participation, and pursuit of growth that reinforces a distinct sense of place. The region's balance of vibrant urban life, rural charm, and natural beauty make Madison an ideal backdrop for CNU 19.

Confirmed speakers include author and urban historian William Cronon and Madison Mayor Dave Cieslewicz.

Why Madison?

In 1911 John Nolen called Madison a "model city." The region has precious natural resources including four lakes and the Kettle Moraine forest. The farm country that surrounds Madison has many rural hamlets that are designed efficiently along traditional neighborhood design standards. They embody the concepts of new urbanism on a small scale. While most of these villages were built to serve the agricultural industry, they also have become an important part of the growing tourism industry - especially bicycling tourism. These efficient town centers and main streets provide an aesthetic that attracts tourists throughout the Midwest.

Madison's natural beauty and rural assets are only part of the story though. The urban center is packed with culture, dining, and a vibrant city life. Madison's balance of urban and rural life creates an engaging and stimulating context for CNU19, where we will explore new models for an age that will demand and reward more sustainable, efficient and livable regional growth.

Start a conversation or comment on someone else's ideas!

CNU 19 Call for Input: http://cnu19.ideascale.com