Lowell: America’s First Frontrunner City for Urban Transformation

In 2025, the City of Lowell was officially designated the first “Frontrunner City” in the United States under the Global Frontrunner Cities Initiative, led by the Urban Economy Forum (UEF). This international recognition marks a transformative milestone in Lowell’s journey toward sustainable, inclusive, and innovation-driven urban development.

The designation reflects the City’s deep commitment to long-term planning and community-led progress. From the Lowell Forward Master Plan to our Green Community designation, bold zoning reforms, and ongoing municipal sustainability efforts, Lowell is aligning local action with global goals. As a Frontrunner City, Lowell is now part of a global platform that connects cities to international investment, academic collaboration, and policy innovation.

The announcement was made on February 7, 2025, at the World Urban Pavilion in Regent Park Powered by Daniels in Toronto, with high-level dignitaries in attendance, including the Hon. Bob Rae, President of the United Nations Economic and Social Council (ECOSOC). A Memorandum of Understanding was signed between UEF and the City of Lowell, establishing a strategic partnership to activate the initiative locally.

To operationalize this milestone, a UEF delegation visited Lowell in July 2025, meeting with Mayor Daniel P. Rourke, City Manager Thomas A. Golden, Jr., the Lowell City Council, and senior municipal staff. The mission also included a landmark partnership with UMass Lowell, which will host UNIVER-city Labs—urban innovation hubs that support research, monitoring, and applied solutions.

“This is not just a symbolic recognition; it is a strategic commitment to action,” said Reza Pourvaziry, Chair of the Urban Economy Forum. “Together, we are launching a model for cities around the world—where community vision, local leadership, innovation, and sustainability intersect.”

The initiative is grounded in community co-creation. Local nonprofits, grassroots organizations, and residents participated in roundtables to ensure that equity, access, and lived experience remain central to the Frontrunner model. Meetings with real estate developers and private sector partners explored joint investment opportunities and knowledge-based urban pilot projects.

A Platform for Global Partnership and Local Impact

Lowell’s Frontrunner City designation opens the door to global collaboration—inviting international companies, technologists, scholars, and investors to co-create a new model for urban transformation. With strong local leadership, academic excellence, and a culture of innovation, Lowell is uniquely positioned to lead.

“This designation amplifies our promise,” said City Manager Golden. “We’re ready to roll up our sleeves with our community, universities, and industry to ensure sustainable transformation benefits every corner of our city.”

Stay tuned for the official public launch of the Frontrunner City initiative—and join us in shaping the future of Lowell.