I will give you some examples. You have seen that I integrate issues on city planning, urban design options, road transportation and public transit. In other words, we are shooting ourselves in the foot by looking into just one area.
I want to share the example of Portland, Oregon. That is one of the most extraordinary cities where, 25 years ago, the urban development and public transit development models were completely overhauled on a regional scale, after the city hit rock bottom. It was no longer livable and was on the brink of bankruptcy. That's when an integrated strategy was developed. Portland is now one of the most attractive, appealing, vibrant and economically prosperous cities in the United States.
It is easier to compare ourselves to cities from our culture than to European cities because we are closer. So, I will share the example of Arlington county, in suburban Washington. Some 25 or 30 years ago, a number of suburban communities adjoining Washington were in trouble. Stores and companies were closing, and the population was leaving. People from the region met and decided to convince the American government and the state government—no small thing, considering that we are talking about Washington—to build a five-station subway line and transform the whole sector into multifunctional communities. The communities would be fairly densely populated around the subway stations, as per the TOD model. Now, everyone wants to live in Arlington in those areas. The rate of public and active transit use is as high as 62%. People are happy. It's beautiful; it's thriving; and it works well.
Europe provides us with some well-known examples of northern cities, such as Stockholm and Copenhagen. Lyons is Montreal's sister city, with which we share a lot of information. The region of Lyons is remarkable for its placement of industrial centres, its heavy public transit services, and its closely located parks and services. It works well.
I could go on, but I want to allow other people to ask questions.