By Tom McClimon
June 27, 2005

A new program to help mayors make their cities more livable was announced by Douglas Steidl, FAIA, President of the American Institute of Architects (AIA). In making the announcement in Chicago, Steidl offered the support of the architectural community in helping to foster partnerships with mayors.

The Blueprint for America initiative will encourage AIA members to collaborate with mayors, community leaders, and citizens to create more vibrant communities. The program will address pressing community issues like accessibility, disaster preparedness, crumbling schools, security, affordable housing, mobility, and other quality of life issues affecting cities. Working with mayors, AIA chapters will choose to address the issue or issues seen as vital to their community's health. In 2006-2007, 288 AIA chapters throughout the United States will be contacting their mayors, volunteering their time in service to their local community.

To learn more about the Blueprint for America, contact AIA at 202-626-7408.