At one time, I thought that the growth of cities and urban revitalization should remain in the hands of government. My thoughts are changing. Now, I wonder if perhaps billionaires hold the key to urban development! It is an interesting notion to ponder. Recently, Michael Bloomberg gave a billion dollars to John Hopkins for the advancement of public health and urban revitalization. As the mayor of a city, he knows firsthand the good and the bad of urbanization. The fact that he wants to invest in the future of our cities is most encouraging to me.
Another entrepreneur interested in the growth of our cities is Tony Hsich, CEO of Zappos. I am intrigued by his efforts to revitalize the city of Las Vegas. His goal is to create the most community focused large city in the world. He has developed a business plan to revitalize the Freemont section of Las Vegas, http://downtownproject.com. This plan includes the growth of small businesses in a walk able community where people learn from one another and build unique businesses and personal relationships to further the growth of the community. He has demonstrated incredible creativity to make this happen. From what I can see, it looks like a great place to live and work.
One reason business leaders are focusing on our cities is because of their ability to accommodate growing populations. Leaders also know these infrastructures need to be carefully thought out. Cities promote or cause health deterioration if not carefully planned out. In looking at health, that also includes one’s mental health. The sense of community is very important and will help to care for an aging population. I urge these leaders to consider all works about cities and populations.
In the book, Women’s Health and the World’s Cities (The City in the Twenty-First Century) by Afaf Ibrahim Meleis, Eugenie L. Birch and Susan M. Wachter (Feb 8, 2013), one can carefully examine the correlation between heath and urbanization, particularly for women. Public health and the growth of cities are definitely related. Thoughtful planning and sense of community can make a big difference. What I really like about this book is that scholarly women from various disciplines, Nursing, Design and business, collaborated on works that would make a difference in increased urbanization. Solutions were not looked at from just one perspective, therefore, more cohesive solutions should be expected resulting in far better outcomes.
These examples demonstrate how change happens. When entrepreneurs enter the landscape, we are going to experience development in a new way. They have a vision and think creatively and work hard to execute that vision. We have cities being transformed by the spirit of entrepreneurship and investments in our fellowmen.
I continue to believe that the answer to the world’s problems lies in the hands of our business communities. We can and do make a difference in people’s lives every single day. Businesses that focus on sustainability efforts continue to look at new ways to manage our natural and human resources in a responsible way. This strategic philanthropy can make a difference to multiple generations. Through planning and an emphasis on health issues and safety issues, sustainable cities are within our reach.
