Program and Event

Thomas Wright Lectures on Environmental Protection and Urban Planning

Thomas Wright lectures at the National University of Laos

On July 24 and 25th, Regional Plan Association Executive Director Thomas Wright visited Laos to conduct workshops on environmental protection and urban planning. The Regional Plan Association is the oldest urban planning organization in the United States, and works primarily in the New York area. Addressing audiences at the National University's Faculty of Architecture and Environment Center, and a smaller roundtable of representatives from the Vientiane Municipality, Mr. Wright described the problems and challenges faced by planners in the United States over the last 200 years. He focused on the difficulties created by unfettered growth, poor zoning, and failures to plan adequately for public transportation. He then described measures taken to correct some of these mistakes, and how planners are helping city officials revitalize their neighborhoods. By linking the benefits of good planning with increased economic development and environmental protection, Mr. Wright was able to generate energetic discussions on challenges faced by students and planners in Laos.