Can Victoria be a “Happy City?”
Over 230 people gathered in the great social space of the Atrium building lobby on the evening of February 18 to hear author Charles Montgomery present on his popular book of urban observations, The Happy City.
Charles Montgomery presents The Happy City. photo: Kristy Westendorp Photography
Montgomery was speaking as part of the TransForm Speaker Series, sponsored by the Greater Victoria Cycling Coalition and the Capital Region District, with co-sponsors that included our Greater Victoria Placemaking Network.
The event also included a panel discussion involving local urban professionals, moderated by the CBC’s Khalil Akhtar. Robert Jawl of Jawl Properties (developer of the glorious Atrium building), Jayne Bradbury of Fort Realty/ Developments and the Fabulous Fort business district group, Miko Betanzo of CitySpaces consulting, and Franc D’Ambrosio of D’Ambrosio Architecture + Urbanism (architects of the Atrium and other buildings around Victoria with a real placemaking sensibility) traded thoughts on points made by Montgomery.
An large and appreciative audience listen to stories of urbanism from across the world. photo: Kristy Westendorp Photography
Afterwards, the appreciative crowd enjoyed food from AJ’s Organics and beverages while debriefing and chatting about local Greater Victoria challenges and opportunities.
Momentum has grown throughout the TransForm Speaker Series – and now we look forward to the next stage with urbanism and placemaking in Victoria – moving into action with on-the-street projects.
