This book goes beyond placemaking as a concept, to offer real-world examples of economic drivers and agents of social and cultural change in Michigan’s own backyard.

The in-depth case studies profiled represent some of the many place-based catalysts that can spark the kind of transformational changes that reinvent and revitalize a community, with tangible payoffs in terms of livability, social and cultural enrichment, and economic development. But most of all, they show us that placemaking is an art, not a science, and displays itself in as many shapes, sizes, and colors as a community can imagine.

These case studies are presented as storytelling narratives meant to engage and inspire readers with the power of placemaking. Each chapter includes valuable resources, data, and teaching tools related to the specific topic.

Find out more about The Economics of Place: The Art of Building Great Communities.