Robert Gibbs Selected as Featured Speaker on New Urbanism at Harvard University Graduate School of Design

Birmingham, MI November 22, 2008 – Robert Gibbs, a Birmingham based city planner has been chosen to speak at Harvard University Graduate School of Design about New Urbanism and Smart Growth Retail Planning and Design Principles.

Gibbs is an advocate for New Urbanism and is invited to speak at 30 or more engagements around the country each year.

New Urbanism creates walkable communities and revitalizes older developments. It focuses on maximizing land use compared to suburban planning models which are more wasteful. With the rising cost of energy, the urban-style developments have experienced increasing popularity.

The seminar will be three days and focus on principles of retail development, New Urbanism and architectural design for successful mixed-use centers. Students will learn how to integrate the New Urbanist model in retail and neighborhood settings.

"I was one of the first 20 to sign the charter for the New Urbanism movement. We're specialists in a certain kind of urban planning. We have our own language, our processes and principals we follow," comments Gibbs. "I'm honored to be chosen to participate in Harvard's distinguished program this year."

For more information about New Urbanism and Robert Gibbs visit www.gibbsplanning.com.

About Gibbs Planning Group:
Robert Gibbs, Principal of Gibbs Planning Group, graduated from Oakland University and worked for The Taubman Co. before launching his own urban-planning practice. He is a dedicated advocate of New Urbanism and speaks all over the country. Gibbs was recently selected to speak at Harvard University Graduate School of Design. The company is celebrating their 20 year anniversary this year.