Urban Development

Creating sustainable, livable cities through innovative urban planning and technology.

Explore Our Initiatives

Affordable Housing Innovation Lab

Our Affordable Housing Innovation Lab develops and tests novel approaches to increase the supply of high-quality, affordable housing in growing urban areas. Working with architects, developers, community organizations, and policy experts, we're pioneering new construction methods, financing mechanisms, and regulatory frameworks that can reduce housing costs while improving quality and sustainability.

Demonstration projects in three cities have successfully reduced construction costs by 28-42% compared to conventional methods while achieving higher energy efficiency and resident satisfaction. Technologies being deployed include modular construction systems, 3D printing applications, and advanced materials that reduce both initial and lifecycle costs. The lab also develops tools that help cities identify optimal locations for affordable housing development based on access to transportation, employment, and essential services.

Urban Resilience Initiative

The Urban Resilience Initiative helps cities prepare for and adapt to climate change impacts and other systemic shocks. Our approach combines physical infrastructure improvements, nature-based solutions, community engagement, and innovative governance models to build multidimensional resilience.

We've developed a comprehensive resilience assessment framework that helps cities identify vulnerabilities and prioritize interventions. In partnership with municipal governments, we've implemented projects ranging from green infrastructure for stormwater management to microgrids that maintain essential services during power outages. These initiatives are designed to deliver multiple benefits, addressing immediate community needs while building long-term adaptive capacity.

Digital Public Infrastructure Program

This program supports cities in developing digital infrastructure that improves service delivery, enhances civic engagement, and promotes equitable development. We provide technical assistance, funding, and implementation support for open data initiatives, digital service platforms, and community broadband networks.

A key focus is ensuring that digital infrastructure benefits all residents, including those traditionally underserved by technology. We've helped establish 85 community technology centers that provide internet access, digital skills training, and technical support in low-income neighborhoods. Our digital equity framework helps cities assess and address barriers to digital participation, from physical access to affordability and digital literacy.

Our Urban Impact

5
Cities with integrated mobility platforms
23%
Reduction in average commute times
42%
Maximum reduction in housing construction costs
85
Community technology centers established

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Partner with PRZC Philanthropies to create lasting positive impact through innovation and collaboration in urban development.

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