Most people sense that something is wrong with how we build our communities. Housing feels out of reach, downtowns struggle to thrive, and development often seems risky, disconnected, and reserved for only the biggest players… But it wasn't always this way.
Join us for an engaging introduction to incremental development—the traditional pattern that created America's most beloved neighborhoods through small, locally driven projects built one step at a time.
Whether you're interested in becoming a small-scale developer, creating a project in your own neighborhood, or are a local leader looking to encourage better growth in your community, this free public lecture will explore how our development systems changed after World War II and what practical alternatives exist today. You'll discover how incremental development can lower risk, rebuild local ownership, and create more adaptable, resilient communities—one small project at a time.
Details
This event begins at 6pm. Doors will open at 5:30. This lecture is free and open to the public, but we kindly ask that you register here to help with headcount and communications.
About the Speaker:
Chris Allen is a partnership builder, nonprofit strategist, and advocate for the people and institutions working to make small-scale development possible again. As Director of Strategic Partnerships for the Incremental Development Alliance, Chris helps connect cities, funders, practitioners, and local leaders to the training, tools, and relationships they need to rebuild strong local development ecosystems.
This event is hosted by:
