Chris Rice Elected President of CNU Central Texas
Congratulations to Campus Planning and Design Manager Chris Rice for being elected president of the Central Texas chapter of the Congress for the New Urbanism (CNU-CTX). The chapter focuses on advocacy, connection and education to promote walkable, mixed-use, human-scaled and vibrant communities.
Chris has been an active member of CNU-CTX for more than four years, serving as a board member and chair of the Education and Outreach Committee. The Central Texas chapter has more than 100 members and is considered one of the most dynamic CNU chapters in the country. The organization unites experts, leaders and communities to guide the region toward livable and resilient communities that improve the quality of life in Central Texas.
“Chris’s leadership, rooted in a deep understanding of campus planning and placemaking, will help guide our chapter in advancing New Urbanist principles at both the City and campus scale,” said CNU-CTX Executive Director Mateo Barnstone. “His passion for engaging younger generations and inspiring students to take an interest in the built environment ensures that the future of urban design remains innovative, inclusive and community-driven.”
As president, Chris will continue championing sustainable urban development and walkable communities throughout Central Texas. His work on key initiatives, including Austin’s Project Connect and the I-35 Capital Expressway corridor redevelopment, underscores his commitment to creating mobility links, equitable pedestrian environments, and reduced car dependency. His leadership is expected to play a key role in achieving these goals and advancing the principles of New Urbanism.
Chris earned a Master of Architecture from the University of Maryland and a Bachelor of Science in Architecture from the University of Texas at Arlington. He is a licensed architect in Texas and a member of several professional organizations, including the American Institute of Architects, the Society of College & University Planners, the Texas Association of College & University Facility Professionals, and the Urban Land Institute.