Let’s try our first pandemic-era Salon with discussion of a couple brief, free, and feel-good documentary spots that connect to our previous discussions on Strong Towns and the Main Street Initiative in highlighting good urban planning and the people and stories behind the plans.All this for less than an hour of homework. Here are the links and some prompts to consider.

1. Buffalo! (10 minutes)
http://firstmainfilms.com/portfolio/bestdesignedcity/Guide & JP Connections
How did Buffalo design to its strengths?
How does the parkway relate to resident identity?
—How do we build around our strengths?
—How can Westons Alley and the Firehouse be our Larkin Square?
—Could the Magnolia be our Lafayette Square?

2. Sprawlanta! (10 minutes)
http://firstmainfilms.com/portfolio/sprawlanta/Guide & JP Connections
What’s with ATL Driving, and how many miles would you want to drive in a day max?
How do crosswalks, garages, and porches express the philosophy of a neighborhood?
How does Glenwood Park convey the fundamentals of walkability?
—How can we advocate for better safety and aesthetics in our downtown?

3. Fresno Miracle! (20 minutes)
http://firstmainfilms.com/portfolio/fresno-miracle/Guide & JP Connections
What’s the deal with the love of cars and sprawl?
How did Fresno build a diverse coalition to support a General Plan?
—What related land-use opportunities exist here?
—How do we build the walkable engagement described in Fresno?
—How is our interest in development revitalization or a new direction?

This will be a Zoom, link provided beforehand.