Edward Erfurt

 

Edward Erfurt is the Chief Technical Advisor at Strong Towns. He is a trained architect and passionate urban designer with over 20 years of public- and private-sector experience focused on the management, design, and successful implementation of development and placemaking projects that enrich the tapestry of place. He believes in community-focused processes that are founded on diverse viewpoints, a concern for equity, and guided through time-tested, traditional town-planning principles and development patterns that result in sustainable growth with the community character embraced by the communities which he serves.

Recent Articles by Edward
The Rent Is Too Damn Artificial
The Rent Is Too Damn Artificial

In January 2025, the U.S. Department of Justice sued six of the nation’s largest landlords, accusing them of artificially inflating apartment rents. But the lawsuit reveals an even deeper problem.

Challenging the Status Quo: The Case for Celebrating Different Developments
Challenging the Status Quo: The Case for Celebrating Different Developments

When a development project dares to break the Suburban Experiment mold, it faces intense scrutiny from both opponents and advocates. Ironically, these are the very projects we should be studying — and even celebrating. Culdesac Tempe, a car-free community in Arizona, is one such project.

How Atlanta's Parking Requirement Changes Made Housing Development Possible
How Atlanta's Parking Requirement Changes Made Housing Development Possible

The Finley Street Cottages project in Atlanta, Georgia, shows how parking mandates can prevent desperately needed development — and how removing those mandates makes housing more attainable and affordable.

Nook and Cranny Urbanism: How To Maximize Every Inch of Space
Nook and Cranny Urbanism: How To Maximize Every Inch of Space

In historic cities, land was treated as a scarce resource and every inch of it was used with ingenuity. This created productive and charming places that could meet the evolving needs of residents. Here are a few ways we can bring that traditional productivity and adaptable charm to modern cities.

The Power of Public Comment: A Love Letter to Your Community
The Power of Public Comment: A Love Letter to Your Community

One of the most powerful things you can do as a strong citizen is to participate in public comment and share appreciation for the things you love about your city. Here’s why.

How a Walking Audit Can Help You Quickly Improve Street Design
How a Walking Audit Can Help You Quickly Improve Street Design

Conducting a walking audit is an quick, easy and free step that anyone can take to start improving their place. In this article, trained architect and urban designer Edward Erfurt demonstrates how to do so, using a recently completed sidewalk project in his community as an example.

 
Edward ErfurtStrong TownsStaff