In this paper, the author discusses the most recent change affecting American central cities and their downtowns the cultural renaissance. This renaissance has resulted in new and renovated arts and cultural facilities, expanded museum collections, and larger audiences. The author focuses on the cultural renaissance that has taken place in the cities of Chicago, Illinois and Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania. These cities, with substantial investments and developments in their cultural arts and institutions, have produced similar work environments but very different results in their residential environments. This paper was presented at the annual meeting of the World Society for Ekistics held in Tinos, Greece from September 24th-29th, 2002.

In this paper, the author discusses the most recent change affecting American central cities and their downtowns the cultural renaissance.