The idea of an all-day conference dedicated to the topic of 'infrastructure' might sound as exciting as a root canal. But quality roads, ubiquitous internet connections, affordable homes, and other so-called 'infrastructure' play an essential role in our daily lives. Investment in these public assets also increasingly shapes West Michigan's economic competitiveness, environmental health, and cultural wellbeing.
This year's Growing Communities conference, organized by the
Grand Valley Metro Council, examines the critical role that infrastructure plays in how neighborhoods and cities look, feel, and function. The event also looks to the future to anticipate our region's future needs (Think rapid mass transit) and how to pay for it all.
Featured speakers include Kirk Steudle, director of the Michigan Department of Transportation; Robert Puentes, a nationally recognized infrastructure expert from the Brookings Institution based in Washington, D.C.; and Rick Gustafson, executive director of the highly successful Portland Streetcar system.
When: Thursday, June 14 2007, 8 AM to 3:30 PM
Where: Prince Conference Center, Calvin College
Cost: $75
Register: Click here.
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