CEOs for Cities, an organization that brings city leaders together to discuss future economic and social growth of cities nationwide, recently gathered to focus on what Phoenix and Tempe are doing to prepare for what’s coming, per The State Press.

The convention, which took place in Downtown Phoenix, focused on the beneficial relationship between the city and Arizona State University. That connection has led to multiple businesses and innovation. Wellington "Duke" Reiter, special advisor to the president of ASU and executive director of the University City Exchange, noted that the impact of the Novus Innovation Corridor and the city’s growing light rail system could be “measured in the billions.” 

Meanwhile, Tempe is trying to create a “20-minute city,” according to Tempe City Councilmember Lauren Kuby. The idea is that, regardless of income, multiple transportation options would allow anyone to get to an established point in the city within 20 minutes. Some ways the city is looking to create that is with a streetcar system, increased bike routes, and expanded public transit. They are also looking at adopting the International Energy Code by 2018, which provides energy efficient provisions for commercial buildings and for low-rise residential buildings.