Council on Vertical Urbanism Debuts in Austin for America’s Conference

April 27, 2026

This past month, the Council on Vertical Urbanism (CVU) held its annual America's Conference in Austin, making its Texas debut. The conference theme, "Change: Shaping Urban Growth through Density, Livability and Technology," frames Austin's transformation as its backdrop, examining the vertical density, infrastructure demands, and design questions that have emerged as the city has transformed over the past few decades. Thought leaders across the industry attended, representing development, architecture, engineering, and building technology.  Panels explored a broad range of topics and challenges in tall building design—from urban resilience strategies in envelope engineering to experience design in cognitive behavior.

Brett Rhode and Kris Swanson of DCI Engineers presented a case study on The Independent on the first day of the conference, featuring the strong collaboration of structural engineering and architecture on the 58-story tower, followed by a fully booked tour of the project. Off-site tours included Waterloo Greenway, Waterline, The Independent, and 44 East Avenue.

CVU’s presence in Austin reflects a growing understanding that thoughtful vertical development is essential to addressing the challenges of urban growth worldwide and its role in shaping more sustainable, resilient, connected, and livable cities.