Resilient Cities Forum 2021

Rebuilding long-term resilience and sustainable cities in the wake of the crisis

COVID-19 presents a unique opportunity for cities to learn from their experience in combatting the virus to be better prepared for future
emergencies. The pandemic’s unprecedented impact on every aspect of urban life has provided compelling data and information about how to
improve crisis responses and recovery strategies. In economic recovery programmes, a balance has to be struck between re-opening too fast and
risking a second wave and moving too slowly and failing to kick-start growth. The key is exibility and agility. Urban leaders must have policies and
protocols in place that will allow cities to operate in multiple modes, from full-crisis lockdowns through phased re-opening to an eventual return to
normal activity – but always with the potential to move rapidly into reverse gear.

Collaboration across governments to drive decision making in an environment of constrained funding resource is an ever-present challenge
however, in a COVID-19 impacted environment, it is increasingly important to deliver good outcomes for communities. The role of government in
delivering an eective framework of economic development initiatives has never been more important as the economy recalibrates and moves
toward a new reality.

Our mayors, governors, and community leaders must do whatever is necessary to get their cities back up and running as soon as they safely can.
Thereafter, we will need plans in place to prepare for future pandemics, and any social or economic lockdowns they necessitate. The federal
government must do its part too, with bold and unprecedented programs to bolster the economic situation of our states and cities as well as our
workers and business, especially small businesses.

Join us at Resilient Cities Forum 2021 as we envision the future of recovery planning beyond the pandemic
and navigating what lies within rebuilding a safer and more resilient cities.