Cuenca is named the number one ‘American City of the Future’

The British Financial Times publication group has awarded Cuenca the top ranking among ‘American Cities of the Future.’

Cuenca’s quality of life was cited in Future City award.

The designation is based on research conducted by the Productive Development Corporation (PDC), and focuses on a city’s lifestyle, urban planning, quality of the environment and culture for innovation and entrepreneurship.

Cuenca Mayor Marcelo Cabrera welcomed the award and said it sends a signal that Cuenca is a good place to invest, work and live. “Achievements such as this help put Cuenca on the international map,” he said.

The award specifically cited Cuenca’s plans to renovate the historic district, installation of the tram system, improvements in water and air quality, and promotion of the arts. “Livability is a major factor for future cities,” the PDC report said. “Businesses are most successful in cities where people want to live.”

The report said that Cuenca’s quality of life has been recognized by thousands of foreigners who have chosen to live in the city. “There are 5,000 North Americans and 2,000 Europeans who have moved to Cuenca in recent years and this is testament to the attractiveness of the city,” the report said.

Cuenca’s designation came in the mid-sized city category.

Other American Future cities recognized by the Financial Times include Arequipa, Peru, Montevideo, Uruguay, Portland, Oregon, and Tallahassee, Florida.