What Drives People?

Hazel Borys argues that "the payback of livable places really can’t be calculated in dollars, or pounds of fat or carbon, or even hours. The payback of place is passion."

1 minute read

June 5, 2012, 7:00 AM PDT

By Hazel Borys

These days we are all collectively making the case for the economic, social, and environmental benefits of sound planning practices. Sometimes we may get so taken up with the payback that we fail to pay attention to what gets people to produce these value drivers in the first place: passion. Borys writes:

"David Byrne noted in last Sunday's NY Times that people get hooked on cycling because of pleasure, not health, money, or carbon footprint. 'Emotional gratification trumps reason.'"

"It's the passion of great places that gets any of us involved, engaged, contributing. But it's also that passion that drives economies, makes connections between people, and gives resilience to jobs and the marketplace."

Thanks to Scott Doyon

FULL STORY: The Passion of Place

Monday, June 4, 2012 in PlaceShakers

Community / Economic Development Government / Politics Land Use Social / Demographics Urban Development World Transect SmartCode Steve Mouzon walkscore Original Green David Byrne Hazel Borys Bikescore Kelly Brownell Margo Wootan Pedaling to Prosperity Rudd Center Weight of the Nation View More

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