Dallas Mayor Participates in Bloomberg CityLab in Madrid

Dallas Mayor Eric L. Johnson spent the first half of this week in Madrid, Spain, at Bloomberg CityLab. Here's a rundown of everything he did.

The city put out a press release with a summary of the trip on Thursday. According to the release, the visit focused on collaboration with mayors from around the world to identify workable solutions to urban challenges.

In particular, the press release states, Johnson emphasized the city's priorities of public safety, economic development, and quality of life, as well as building a strong, mutually beneficial relationship between Dallas and Madrid.

Johnson's trip started on Monday, April 27, and ended on Wednesday. Bloomberg Philanthropies covered the costs of Johnson's travel and lodging.

On Monday, Johnson participated in the Mayors Innovation Studio, which is an interactive working session designed for candid exchanges among mayors from leading global cities. During the session, Johnson and the other participants discussed practical, results-driven solutions to challenges in housing, technology, and other critical areas.

A central theme of the studio was the idea that cities do not need to work through issues alone, but can instead work together to solve common problems together.

On Tuesday, Johnson continued his participation with morning work sessions focused on the unique role of cities in the modern world and how local leaders are best positioned to serve communities most effectively.

Johnson also held a bilateral meeting with Madrid Mayor José Luis Martínez-Almeida during the trip. During the meeting, the two discussed the importance of maintaining a city's unique nature and landscapes while facilitating economic growth and serving the needs of a growing population.