DenverUrbanism Only the Strong (Cities) Will Survive w/StrongDenver- #19
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Jun 11, 2025 
In this discussion, Ed Callahan and Montana Gau of StrongDenver delve into urbanism's key role in building resilient cities. They tackle Denver’s financial challenges, exploring how sustainable urban development can enhance neighborhood density. The duo critiques past urban planning errors, advocating for inviting public spaces that foster community. They also emphasize the need for deregulation to address housing shortages, and propose innovative strategies for urban infrastructure that prioritize vibrant and enjoyable city life.
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Denver's Urban Finance Challenge
- Denver's financial struggles relate to a common North American urban trend of suburban sprawl.
- Older, denser neighborhoods subsidize spread-out, affluent suburbs, creating unsustainable city finances.
Density Outperforms Sprawl Financially
- Dense neighborhoods generate more tax revenue relative to infrastructure costs than sprawling ones.
- Sprawl increases service area and infrastructure needs, raising costs despite lower density.
Deregulate to Enable Growth
- Remove overregulation, such as parking minimums and lot sizes, to allow natural, incremental city growth.
- Legalize small-scale housing types like corner stores and allow diverse housing options in neighborhoods.