Exciting stories about the future
Reykjavík's creative energy will be displayed in many forms at a meeting about Economic and Urban Development that the mayor of Reykjavík is hosting on Friday. The agenda begins at 9am in Tjörnin Hall at Reykjavík City Hall, featuring many speakers who will look to the future and showcase numerous projects already on the drawing board.
Þórey Einarsdóttir, executive director of UI Science Park, will discuss a new deep tech center to be built in Vatnsmýri. Its completion will further strengthen Reykjavík as a science and innovation city that attracts talented people, research projects and investments to Iceland. Þórey says this is a great opportunity to hear exciting stories about the future.
Innovations at Grandi and in the city center
Þór Sigfússon, founder and board chair of the Iceland Ocean Cluster, will also provide insight into the future. The Ocean Cluster's planned new building at Grandi, "The 100% House," will provide even better support for blue innovation. "The 100% House will be a testament to the exemplary innovation and sustainability of Icelandic fisheries," says Þór.
René Boonekamp, entrepreneur at Haus, a community for creative people, will discuss a new facility opening near Hlemmur. René has been a leader in running Hafnar.Haus, which has thrived at Hafnarhús Museum.
Róbert Aron Magnússon, executive director of Kolaportið, will discuss renewed energy in running this diverse public market in the city center. Róbert says ideas for a Christmas Market are now on the drawing board, and he will outline these plans.
Services in city neighborhoods
A strong sense of place in the city's neighborhoods will be a key focus at this year's meeting. Peter Bur Andersen, director of the Danish architecture firm BRIQ and consultant for urban development, will discuss urban mixing, the importance of clear strategy and prioritization, collaboration between the city and developers, and how such partnerships can create attractive and vibrant urban environments. The meeting will explore how to breathe life into commercial and service buildings and create a strong sense of place in the city's neighborhoods.
Reykjavík competes with other cities
"Economic and Urban Development is for people and businesses. We want to build a city with interesting job opportunities where people can apply their education and skills, and choose Reykjavík over other competing cities," says Heiða Björg Hilmisdóttir, mayor.
The mayor's informational meeting is open, but guests are encouraged to register to aid in planning.