Join the Providence Preservation Society for a continued dialogue about the challenges facing downtown Providence at its fall symposium, Not Always Easy: Building the New Urban Experience. Over the past few months, the series has already featured a panel of experts including Adrian Benepe, senior vice president of The Trust for Public Land; Jennifer Bradley, co-author of The Metropolitan Revolution; and Benjamin Barber, author of If Mayors Ruled the World.

The series now culminates with a 3 day symposium at the Industrial National Trust building, known as the Superman building to locals. It kicks off with a free presentation by Mark Mallory, Cincinnati’s mayor from 2005-2013 at 5:30 PM on Thursday, November 6th. On Friday, November 7th, PPS will host a full day of discussion, beginning with Gabe Klein, former commissioner of the transportation departments in Chicago and Washington, DC. Panel discussions will follow, focusing on partnerships for the South Street power station redevelopment and the application of good urban ideas in Providence. Tickets are offered at $125/person, with discounted options for students and non-profit organizations. Later that night, PPS will hold its annual preservation awards ceremony and closing reception hosted by the Arcade Providence. Tickets for the reception are free, but advance registration is encouraged.

On Saturday, November 8th, you’re invited to meet for coffee at the Arcade before choosing one of four walking tours, starting at 11 AM. Choose from tours of the proposed streetcar route, the I-195 development lands, examples of downtown preservation projects, and the Industrial National Bank building. Tours cost $10/person.

Bring your insight and experience into the conversation! View the complete schedule, and register online at providencesymposium.com. Click here for a press release about the symposium.