Small Is Big: Making the Next Great Small to Mid-Size Downtowns

Small is Big looks to the future and sees enormous potential in small to mid-size downtowns. To help realize that potential, it provides the tools to both develop and implement an action plan for change. Inside this visionary yet practical guide, discover:

A TESTED PROCESS to envision and develop broadly supported options for your community

A UNIQUE TOOL to assess the health of your downtown on four fronts:

social, economic, environmental, and organizational

CASE STUDIES from towns and small cities across North America that have successfully realized vitalization plans

QUESTIONS to spark discussion, VISUALS to inspire transformation, and LIST OF IDEAS to jump-start your customized action plan

A refreshing alternative to"cosmetic" fixes, Small is Big addresses underlying challenges, leadership issues, as well as funding sources. This book will give you the framework to create a complete and resilient downtown that invites the new economy. Come explore the potential of your downtown.

Michael Von Hausen is one of the leading urban designers and planners in Canada. He has completed more than ten downtown plans and has received numerous awards for this work in association with his clients and other consultants as president of MVH Urban Planning & Design Inc. Michael is also an adjunct professor at Simon Fraser University and Vancouver Island University. He is a fellow of the Canadian Institute of Planners and a graduate of Harvard University with a master's urban design and specialty in real estate development economics. For more about Michael, visit mvhinc.com.