Center AGORA invited adjunct professor Steven Johnson, Portland State University to Portland MACHIZUKURI Week held from December 11–16. During the week, participants in the event studied about Portland’s urban development. The city of Portland is referred to as the symbol of urban development in the U.S. and has been discussed even in Japan as a sustainable and creative city.

Adjunct Professor Johnson held a total of five lectures and workshops and discussed strategic urban development, including Portland’s own policies, resident activities, and educational activities, from a resident-participation perspective. A total of about two hundred people, including not only Okayama University faculty and students but also members of the local government, business community, and residents took part in the activities, and the issues of how Portland could be used as an example for the Okayama area were discussed. Professor Johnson proposed that “(Okayama) create its own urban Machizukuri Story by collecting the various small stories that not only the government but also residents are involved in.”

Both Okayama University and Portland State University through urban development are actively conducting research, student exchanges, and other activities.

Inquiries regarding the above should be directed to:
Academic and General Okayama University Regional Research Association
Tel: +81-86-251-8491