CNU 33.New England at Providence survey recap
As the Congress for the New Urbanism (CNU) continues to grow and evolve with ever more impactful annual gatherings, CNU 33.New England at Providence proved to be another landmark event. This year’s post-congress survey sheds light on who attends, what they value, and how the Congress continues to shape the urbanist conversation. Here's a snapshot of the findings:
Who Attended: A Demographic Breakdown
Despite 259 non-responses, 1,232 participants shared their backgrounds, painting a picture of a predominantly White (80%) but increasingly diverse community, with 7% identifying as Hispanic/Latino, 5% Black or Biracial, 5% AAPI, and 3% Other.
Gender leaned slightly male (58%), with 40% female and 2% identifying as nonbinary or other.
Age-wise, the Congress saw strong representation across generations:
- 26% were 35–44
- 23% were 25–34
- 21% were 45–54
- 15% were 55–64
- 10% represented all other age groups
Professional Landscape
Among the 568 who reported their professions, the Congress drew a robust mix:
- 27% Planners
- 21% Architects
- 10% Urban Designers
- 9% Students
- 9% Planning Directors
- 8.5% Developers
- 8% Non-profit Professionals
Top specialties (from 179 responses) included:
- 36% Mixed-Use Urbanism
- 23% Development
- 15% Policy
- 14% Urbanist Architecture
- 12% Sustainable Urbanism
Attendance Trends: Newcomers & Veterans
CNU continues to attract new faces this year. Here's the breakdown of first-time attendees from previous Congresses:
- CNU 30: 55.5% new attendees
- CNU 31: 54%
- CNU 32: 50%
- CNU 33: 58% – the highest yet
The growing presence of newcomers signals a thriving movement welcoming fresh perspectives.
First-Time Experience: Feeling Seen and Inspired
New attendees rated their welcome experience a 3.9 out of 5, matching their rating when comparing CNU to other conferences.
Highlights included:
- “Programming clearly catered toward first-time attendants.”
- “The tours MADE the conference.”
- “Sessions applicable to real-world planning.”
- “Meeting people from all over with fresh perspectives.”
Overall Congress Experience: 3.6/5
Returning attendees also praised the Congress format:
- “Tours, sessions, and city use were top-notch.”
- “Best conference of its type in my field.”
- “Amazing content and chance to connect with thought leaders.”
The Congress remains a space of learning, networking, and reflection on urban design’s future.
Programming & Engagement
Respondents appreciated both the quality and diversity of programming.
Session attendance breakdown:
- 47% attended 4–9 sessions
- 34% attended 10–15
- 10% went to 16 or more
Other highlights:
- 28% attended the New Urbanism Open House, with 74% appreciating the open concept.
- 17% joined Local Government Day, which earned a strong 7.9/10 satisfaction rating.
Attendees especially praised the diversity and depth of session topics:
“Almost every session provided real substance and sparked meaningful conversation.”
Congress Theme: Coherence in the Metropolitan Region
This year’s theme resonated deeply. Attendees said:
- “It showed how urbanism transcends jurisdictions and connects to a deeper sense of place.”
- “Inspired by how New Urbanism is being applied in different parts of the U.S.”
- “The human spirit-centered message stuck with me.”
Looking Ahead to CNU 34
Excitement is already building for CNU 34 in Northwest Arkansas. Survey participants requested:
- More on-the-ground project tours
- Local case studies that showcase implementation of New Urbanist principles
As for future host cities, 78 were suggested. Top recommendations:
- Minneapolis/St. Paul (17 votes)
- Pittsburgh (11)
- New Orleans (10)
- Portland, OR and Vancouver (9 each)
Final Words from Attendees
“For a first timer, I couldn’t be more hopeful and inspired.”
“The Annual Congress is always an amazing experience. I hope to bring more people next year!”
“CNU makes me feel like part of something bigger.”
The survey makes it clear: CNU continues to serve as a dynamic, inclusive space for professionals passionate about shaping better places. As we look forward to CNU 34.Northwest Arkansas and beyond, our annual gathering will continue to grow as a hub for collaboration, innovation, and community.
