Urban Dialogues Lecture Series
Inaugural Lecture: Making Cities Work: The Future of New York’s Public Infrastructure

Tuesday, 20 September 2011 | Reception: 5:30 p.m. | Panel Discussion: 6:30 p.m.
The Morgan Library & Museum | 225 Madison Ave., New York, N.Y.

The Urban Dialogue Series is dedicated to exploring the relationship between architecture, urban studies and sustainable development. Our purpose is to invite distinguished speakers from a variety of professional backgrounds to discuss the future of cities and how we can build toward sustainability. The lecture series will play a vital role in Fordham University's long-standing commitment to serve New York City and its people. It is an expression of Fordham's continuing engagement with sustainability and the future of New York.

The inaugural lecture will focus on the challenge of New York City’s infrastructure needs. It is no secret that New York City’s infrastructure is aging and failing, and that funding to repair and replace it is has been insufficient. Robert Yaro, president of the Regional Plan Association, has recently written that “New York needs an Olympic-sized infrastructure investment.” The city’s ability to compete globally is dependent on our willingness to invest in critical infrastructure and quality of life. And urban infrastructure is not just a New York City or U.S. issue; it is one of the most urgent challenges facing megacities around the world. Even more, infrastructure must be designed for sustainability, with attention to environmental and energy-use considerations. Good design and advanced materials can improve transportation and energy, water and waste systems, and create more sustainable urban environments. What are the alternatives for New York and how can we best move forward with renewing and building the city’s infrastructure for the 21st century?

The lecture will open the dialogue on these questions and more with renowned experts:

Moderator:
Sam Roberts, Urban Affairs Correspondent, The New York Times

Confirmed Speakers/panelists:

Kevin Burke, CEO, Con Edison

Christopher O. Ward, Executive Director, Port Authority of New York and New Jersey

Richard Ravitch, former Lieutenant Governor of New York

Kathy Caldwell, President of the American Society of Civil Engineers

RSVP by Tuesday, 13 September 2011.

To RSVP, contact the Office of Special Events at (212) 636-6575 or specialevnts@fordham.edu.