47th Conference in Portland

47th International
Making Cities Livable Conference on

TRUE URBANISM:
CITIES FOR HEALTH & WELL-BEING

& Exhibit on

SUCCESSFUL URBAN PLAZAS & NATURE SPACES

Co-Sponsors: City of Portland, Portland Metro Council

The Governor Hotel
Portland, OR
May 10-14, 2009

On behalf of my colleagues at the Metro Council, I am pleased to welcome you to the Portland metropolitan region for the 47th International Making Cities Livable Conference. We are pleased that our region continues to serve as a model for urban planning and smart growth. We hope that you will find time to explore some of the neighborhoods and communities that make us known for livability and smart planning.

The Portland metropolitan region comprises 25 cities in three counties. The Metro Council, responsible for land-use and transportation planning, regional facilities and parks, is committed to a thriving region that invests in community and quality of life. From curbing sprawl to protecting and investing in natural areas, we believe that the best way to plan for our future is to create it now. Plans must be implemented to create great places.

I hope you will enjoy the range of amenities offered by Portland, our region's vital core, and the surrounding cities and town centers. While there's a lot to be proud of in our region, we have challenges ahead. Just as you are here to study our example, I look forward to gaining my own fresh perspectives from your visit here.

David Bragdon
Metro Council President