POWER OF TEN: Toderian shares strategies for building more 'complete' places

On August 13 the Power of Ten, CRT's annual regional summit, convened hundreds of elected officials, community development professionals, and engaged residents for an online conversation focused on how communities across the region can build better, more sustainable, and inclusive places.

Brent Toderian, an internationally respected practitioner and advocate for creative, vibrant city-building, was the keynote presenter. Brent served as Chief Planner for Vancouver, BC for six years before establishing TODERIAN UrbanWORKS.

Brent shared his insight on what Nashville and the region could learn from other places on how to build better, more 'complete' places that are sustainable and fair. He also discussed how the pandemic has highlighted the need for greenspace, transit options, and greater inclusivity.

Following Brent's presentation a panel of local leaders discussed how the insight shared by Brent could be implemented in our region. Mayors Paige Brown (Gallatin) and Chaz Molder (Columbia) together with planning professionals Doug Demosi (Rutherford County​), Emily Hunter Wright (City of Franklin), and F​aye DiMassimo (Nashville-Davidson County) made up the panel. Gail Carr-Williams, former Associate Director of Community, Neighborhood and Government Relations for Vanderbilt University, served as facilitator.