Millennials and the Changing Community

WHAT YOU’LL LEARN

• How millennial preferences impact communities in terms of housing, transportation, and engagement .
• How communities nationwide have responded to millennial trends to attract and retain this (America’s largest) generation
• How to involve millennials in the planning process and address their unique preferences

MORE SESSION DETAILS

Consumer preferences among Americans have shifted toward the greatest support to date for walkable, mixed-use neighborhoods and multiple modes of transportation. Driving much of this shift are millennials, the generation born between 1980 and 2000, who now make up the largest portion of both the American workforce and first-time home buyers. How do cities react to trending millennial preferences and their effect on communities in terms of housing, transit, and community engagement? What data can help us understand what works in attracting and retaining members of America’s largest generation as they start families and begin to settle in communities? Presenters will share recent research, case studies, and anecdotes showcasing success in using progressive affordable housing, transit, and community- engagement practices. Join planners with a diverse range of backgrounds and experiences in this discussion on how planners can work constructively to support this change in preferences. Through a short presentation and interactive facilitated discussion, this session explores interventions within the built environment and planning process that engage millennials and allow planners to build inclusive and vibrant cities.