Introduction to Incremental Development FREE Public Presentation

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

After the presentation concludes, we’ll host a lively conversation featuring Joel Dixon, Andre Jones (local developer with Jones Urban Development) and John Zeanah (urban planner and former Chief of Development and Infrastructure for the City of Memphis).

Doors open at 5:30pm. The lecture will begin promptly at 6:00pm. Drinks will be available for purchase on site before and after the event.

This event is sponsored by: Pathway Lending, the City of Memphis Division of Housing and Community Development, Jones Urban Development Co, and Memphis Housing Lab.