AIA to focus on public policy in the year to come.

The New York Chapter of the American Institute of Architects announced its 2006 theme: "Architecture as Public Policy," with the inauguration of its 2006 president, Mark E. Strauss. and the installation of the 2006 AIANY board of directors.

The theme reflects the Chapter's interest in developing stronger ties between the public sector and design professionals.

"Too often, building projects in New York are stymied by the political process, either because the design team has not addressed underlying community concerns or because political leadership has been compromised," said Strauss, who serves as principal-in-charge of planning at FXFOWLE ARCHITECTS, PC.

As a consequence, the AIA New York Chapter wants develop a series of programs that will bring elected and appointed officials together with architects and design professionals, so that all sides can learn from each another.

"Architects need to understand more fully the political process, and political leaders need to become greater advocates for design excellence," said Rick Bell, executive director of the Chapter.

The theme will be introduced during the inaugural program by keynote speaker, Jonathan Barnett. Barnett is the former chair of the Department of Planning at City College and former director of the Urban Design Task Force during Mayor John Lindsay's administration. He is also the author of the book Urban Design as Public Policy, from which the AIA theme is adapted. Beyond the inaugural, the chapter expects to define future programs in partnership with its members, allied organizations within the design community and the public sector.

An exhibition based on the theme is also being planned at the Center for Architecture for the 2006 Architecture Week.

The Inaugural will be held on Tuesday, December 6, at the Center for Architecture. A reception will follow the inaugural program.