The Better Block project got its start in Dallas when a group of community organizers, neighbors, and property owners partnered to revitalize a single commercial block for a weekend.
Since that time, Better Block projects have spread around the world. These volunteer-based projects, often referred to as “living charettes” or even “Extreme Home Makeover for cities,” create on a temporary basis the infrastructure improvements, business mix, amenities, and programming that residents would like to see on a more permanent basis.
By creating a vision of what could be, Better Block projects have rallied the public demand necessary to change city ordinance, generate permanent infrastructure improvements, and attract new businesses.
The full article appeared in our print edition. To always get the full story, read Downtown Idea Exchange.