The fourth national Reclaiming Vacant Properties Conference is set for June 20-22, 2012 in New Orleans. Our theme is “Remaking America for the 21st Century.”
As always, conference sessions and activities will explore a wide variety of topics related to the challenges and opportunities presented by foreclosed, abandoned, blighted and other problem properties. But this time around, we’re also making even more of an effort to place these ideas in the broader context of the nation’s economic recovery and the future reinvention of America’s cities and towns. At Community Progress, we believe that land is the foundation upon which great places are built and that land reform strategies are key to creating cities and towns that are livable enough to retain and employ their current residents, and economically vibrant enough to compete for the jobs and population of the future. In other words, reclaiming vacant properties is a first step toward remaking America.
New Orleans is a perfect setting in which to explore this idea, since there is truly no other city in America that so exemplifies meeting the challenges of growth and renewal. This is particularly true since we’ve chosen the Hyatt Regency New Orleans as the location for the conference. The Hyatt will be reopening this fall for the first time since Hurricane Katrina. We are confident you’ll find New Orleans an exciting and inspiring place to gather.
More on the Theme
Problem or asset? Blight or benefit? Explore the strategies and tools that neighborhoods, cities and states are using to turn the challenge of vacant land and buildings into a foundation on which to build the future.
From “rethinking” the competitive 21st century city to hands-on techniques for everything from code enforcement to acquisition of property, the Center for Community Progress’ June conference will reflect the broadest thinking and experience of those engaged in repairing and rebuilding their communities. More than one hundred speakers and presenters will be offering their insights, including two of the nation’s leading social commentators, Clarence Page and Bob Edwards. Clarence Page is our keynote speaker for the conference’s closing plenary, and Bob Edwards is moderating our opening plenary, “In Every Crisis An Opportunity,” with New Orleans Mayor Mitch Landrieu, Cook County Board President Toni Preckwinkle, Cincinnati Mayor Mark Mallory, and Treasury official Benson “Buzz” Roberts on local, county and federal efforts to transform vacant and abandoned homes and businesses into assets for revitalization.
Who will be there?
Everyone from government and community leaders to funders, lenders and engaged residents; from those building their way out of crime to those building or rebuilding the next American city…and we hope, you! So join us in New Orleans – one of America’s great cities, and a fascinating and exciting example of what rebuilding community can mean today. We look forward to seeing you in New Orleans on June 20-22. Registration for the conference is now open!
