Strong Towns Chicago is teaming up with the Incremental Development Alliance to host two workshops on small-scale development in Chicago. The Alliance trains local residents to strengthen their own neighborhoods through modest real estate projects, like renovating a two-flat or building a small mixed-use storefront. Here's a preview of what the workshops will cover:

Most people sense that something is wrong with how we build our communities. Housing feels out of reach, downtowns struggle to thrive, and development often seems risky, disconnected, and reserved for only the biggest players… But it wasn't always this way.

Join us for an engaging introduction to incremental development—the traditional pattern that created America's most beloved neighborhoods through small, locally driven projects built one step at a time.

Whether you're interested in becoming a small-scale developer, creating a project in your own neighborhood, or are a local leader looking to encourage better growth in your community, this free public lecture will explore how our development systems changed after World War II and what practical alternatives exist today. You'll discover how incremental development can lower risk, rebuild local ownership, and create more adaptable, resilient communities—one small project at a time.

Details

This event begins at 6pm. Doors will open at 5:30. This lecture is free and open to the public, but we kindly ask that you register here to help with headcount and communications.