Ten Signs of a Resurgent Downtown

In GeekWire, Chuck Wolfe continues his exploration of a holistic and practical approach to post-pandemic urban center recovery, anchored in local context and community-driven initiatives that promote livability, safety, and sustainability.

1 minute read

May 24, 2023, 5:00 AM PDT

By Charles R. Wolfe @crwolfelaw


Vancouver Chuck Wolfe

Watching for signs of resurgence in Vancouver, British Columbia | Chuck Wolfe

Wolfe distinguishes between those who envision a traditional return to the commute-based office-residence split, and others who insist that downtowns must rethink their purpose and redesign underused spaces to attract more people.  He lists ten signs of ongoing processes that indicates a city’s ongoing recovery and regeneration. 

He suggests that these guideposts, backed by real-world examples, might offer a roadmap to inspire resurgence:

  • Innovative interventions by government, non-profits, and the private sector.
  • Mixed-use spaces, both temporary and permanent.
  • Encouraging of artistic expression. 
  • Community subsidies.
  • Safety assurance.
  • Embracing creativity and colors.
  • Enhancing street sounds and scents.
  • Encouraging children’s participation.
  • Highlighting scenic views.
  • Developing a “places worth visiting” mindset.

Monday, May 22, 2023 in GeekWire

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I love the variety of courses, many practical, and all richly illustrated. They have inspired many ideas that I've applied in practice, and in my own teaching. Mary G., Urban Planner

I love the variety of courses, many practical, and all richly illustrated. They have inspired many ideas that I've applied in practice, and in my own teaching.

Mary G., Urban Planner

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