Smithfield, RI: A Bottom-Up Revolution to Rebuild American Prosperity

Why are so many cities and towns across North America going broke? Our roads are deteriorating. Our governments are in debt. No matter how much we increase them, our taxes aren’t enough to fix it all.

In this presentation, Strong Towns Chief Technical Expert Edward Erfurt will explain, in plain language, how so many American cities have found themselves in decline after decades of “growth.” And then we show you a revolutionary way forward that could create enduring prosperity—if we just have the courage to change our minds.

Topics Covered:

• Why our cities are on the cusp of a long, slow decline, and how to approach the necessary triage in a rational way. 
• Why inducing growth and development has been the conventional response to urban financial struggles—and why it just doesn’t work. 
• Why old and blighted areas are often more financially productive than shiny new ones.
• The power of “little bets” to strengthen communities and improve the lives of citizens.
• How humble public engagement can create amazing insights. The surprising ways that strong neighborhoods make us better people.

More event details to come. For now, save the date and make sure to become a member of Strong Towns.