Building a More Walkable Keene

Arguably one of the most influential voices in the field of city planning today, Jeff Speck is an author and urban designer who advocates internationally for more walkable cities. He has literally written the book on the subject, the 2012 classic Walkable City, the best-selling city planning title of the past decade.

Jeff has helped communities large and small understand how walkability supports common goals like increasing tourism, economic activity, public health, safety, and sustainability. His wealth of experience, knowledge, and vision allows him to serve as an invaluable resource to each community that he works with, whether the discussion focuses on big-picture change or targeted, incremental improvements.

The Keene Downtown Group has an opportunity to bring Jeff to Keene. As our city grapples with major decisions about public space and infrastructure, there could not be a better time to welcome Jeff to our community and benefit from his perspective. We owe it to ourselves and future generations to consider all our options, including ideas that a foremost expert like Jeff can bring to the table. When making tough choices about our world-class city, we should have world-class ideas at our fingertips.

Since towns and cities across the globe are seeking Jeff’s services, his schedule fills up fast. In fact, his availability for the foreseeable future is limited to one day—June 12th. Consequently, we’re on a short timeline to raise funds in support of Jeff’s fee, which we believe is well worth the investment. Jeff’s time with us would include:

• A small-group tour of downtown Keene so that Jeff can gain on-the-ground perspective.
• A pre-lecture reception.
• Dinner with key sponsors.
• An evening lecture and book signing.
• The next morning, a Q&A with key decision-makers (if funds allow).

In hopes that fundraising is successful, Herberton Hall at the Keene Public Library has already been secured to host the lecture. Please RSVP for this event today! We’re developing an outreach and marketing plan as we gather financial resources. The ingredients of an impactful event are coming together.

To make it happen, however, we need community contributions from folks like you. By supporting our campaign, you’ll help ensure that the conversation about downtown Keene is infused with imagination, insight from other communities, and Jeff’s practical, real-world experience accrued over decades as a walkability professional.

This event will focus on Keene, but many of its lessons will be applicable to other towns and cities. If you live nearby and are interested in walkability issues, please consider supporting our campaign. Thank you!

BUDGET:

Jeff Speck - Speaker and Travel Fees: $12,000

Event Marketing - Posters and Ads: $500

Event Reception - Refreshments and Supplies: $500