The Newman Institute’s Downtown Future Group Study casts forward to the year 2020 using the most sophisticated modeling systems to isolate the determining factors that would enable this critical section of Manhattan to flourish.

Members of the team include noted experts in economics, transportation, valuation, population, logistics, urban design and urban planning — Robert Geddes, Peter Salins, Robert Burchell, Hugh Kelly, Robert Paaswell, Rosemary Scanlon, Sam Schwartz and Robert Von Ancken. The study views Lower Manhattan’s future within the context of its place in the greater metropolitan region and—in light of competition among regions—the entire country and beyond. The completed report will provide census forecasts, economic analysis and recommendations based upon GIS models and analysis of the associated land use and real estate databases. The conclusions are meant to isolate potential conditions and to suggest the public policies and private initiatives that would be most likely not only to continue but also to enhance the positive development strategies in Lower Manhattan.

While acknowledging the public policy initiatives and the infrastructure investments that already have made Lower Manhattan an increasingly desirable residential area, as well as the commitment of the private sector in strengthening the retail and commercial uses in Lower Manhattan, the study will make recommendations for additional transportation and infrastructure investment. The study will provide insight into how market indicators can be used for decisions about new housing. It will include a special focus on Chinatown.

Through its interdisciplinary approach, the Downtown Future Group Study will recommend strategies for spatial planning, and for specific building types, for additional ways to strengthen the community/government relationship, and for further infrastructure improvement—the ingredients that are necessary for a sustainable 21st century urban community.