Peter Kageyama, author of “For the Love of Cities,” recently shared insights at the Greater Fort Lauderdale Alliance’s Six Pillars Conference, linking resident affection for their cities to tangible economic development. His talk resonated with South Florida cities actively working to enhance their sense of place amidst burgeoning development.
Key Takeaways
- Cities with higher resident "attachment" experience greater GDP growth.
- Simple, low-cost initiatives can significantly improve urban environments.
- "Co-creators" outside official roles are vital for community improvement.
The Dollars and Sense of City Affection
A study by the Knight Foundation revealed a direct correlation between resident attachment to a city and its GDP growth. Kageyama highlighted common resident complaints like traffic, parking, and poor design, suggesting that many South Florida cities are still at a foundational level of urban development. He emphasized that truly thriving cities are not just functional but also comfortable, convivial, and fun.
Practical Strategies for Urban Enhancement
Kageyama proposed practical, often low-cost, strategies to foster this sense of attachment. Making cities more bike-friendly, for instance, sends a message of inclusivity beyond car-centric planning. He noted the potential of simple signage indicating walking distances, a concept that turned into a pilot program in Raleigh, N.C. Similarly, dog-friendly amenities like waste bag dispensers and dedicated dog parks encourage people to be out on the streets, increasing social interaction and perceived safety.
He contrasted large-scale investments like Chicago’s Millennium Park with more modest, yet effective, approaches. Braddock, Pennsylvania, for example, used a simple water hose for a park’s water feature, proving that creative, budget-friendly solutions can achieve similar results.
Empowering Community "Co-Creators"
Kageyama also celebrated individuals who act as "co-creators," driving positive change through community initiatives without official roles. He cited Candy Chang’s "It’s Good to Be Here" sidewalk messages in New Orleans and Jim Ryan’s "Mice on Main" project in Greenville, S.C., as examples of how creative, resident-led efforts can create unique attractions and foster community pride.
Local Examples of Success
Kageyama specifically recognized Chad Scott’s role in establishing the Flagler Community Garden in Fort Lauderdale. Supported by the church, the Community Redevelopment Agency, Scotts Miracle-Gro, and Whole Foods, the garden provides produce and fosters community through regular gatherings. These initiatives, Kageyama concluded, represent the "secret sauce" that makes cities better places to live.