We are guided by the simple but powerful idea that if everything we do in our cities is great for an 8-year-old and an 80-year-old, then it will be better for all people.
Our Mission
Our mission is to ignite action and challenge the status quo to create healthier, more equitable, and sustainable cities for all people.t
Our Vision
Our vision is to create healthy, happy, and sustainable cities for people to grow up and grow old in, where all people have the right to safe and active mobility, welcoming and accessible public spaces, and inclusive city-building processes.
Our Story: 20 Years of Creating Cities for All.
Imagine your own street, neighbourhood, or favourite park. What would it look and feel like if everything there was designed to be great for an 8-year-old and an 80-year-old?
This isn’t just a question for planners or politicians—it’s an invitation for everyone to picture a city where all can thrive.
Twenty years ago, this simple but powerful question became the foundation of 8 80 Cities.
Gil (Guillermo) Peñalosa started the organization in 2005 because he believed cities should be places where people of all ages and abilities can thrive, not just for those who are “30 and athletic”. Back then, and for too long, cities prioritized cars over people. This meant children had less freedom, older adults felt more alone, and public spaces felt less welcoming.
While Gil was travelling and giving talks about the ‘8 80 concept’ and strategies to make better cities for everyone, the need to turn these ideas into real change became increasingly clear, both in Canada and internationally.
Since then, 8 80 Cities has evolved into a dynamic, multidisciplinary team dedicated to advancing our mission. Our ever-growing network has also expanded, becoming one of our greatest strengths, amplifying our reach and impact.
We challenge conventional city building by prioritizing the needs of the most vulnerable and centring people and planetary health in every project.
As we celebrate 20 years, our commitment remains the same as it was in 2006: to help create cities where everyone, regardless of age, ability, or background, has the right to the city. A right to move safely and comfortably, a right to enjoy a vibrant public realm, and a right to participate in the life of the city. We invite you to join us in co-creating the future of our cities—share your ideas, get involved in our programs, and help us shape the next 20 years of creating 8 80 cities.
