Building an equitable economy in New York City requires a groundbreaking approach to urban design. The Forum invites you to advance designs, policy initiatives and creative financing ideas focused on the evolving economy. How can we use creative zoning, investment in the public realm, and new infrastructure to enhance economic outcomes for all?

Our fourth Forefront Fellowship explores how urban practitioners can advance climate justice principles across New York City. In partnership with the Mayor’s Office of Resiliency, Fellows will survey neighborhoods, study buildings, interview local and international stakeholders, and produce creative research on mitigating heat. How can we retrofit buildings, improve open space, and strengthen social infrastructure to tackle the threat of extreme heat?

Cities around the world are leveraging private development to build new neighborhoods, public spaces, transit networks and social housing. On our 40th anniversary, the Urban Design Forum launches a new Global Exchange program, aiming to foster dialogue between New York and its peer cities as they pioneer new approaches to housing, infrastructure and open space.