Serenbe Stories Catalyst To Create Serenbe
Sep 23, 2019
Steve Nygren, the visionary founder of Serenbe, shares his inspiring journey from concerned neighbor to sustainable community developer. After witnessing a bulldozer clearing trees, he rallied landowners to prevent urban sprawl, ultimately securing 600 acres for preservation. Nygren reflects on the balance between urban growth and environmental stewardship, critiques traditional development approaches, and emphasizes the need for innovative strategies that prioritize community health and connectivity. His story is a powerful call to embrace responsibility for future generations.
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Bulldozer Sparks Big Land Purchase
- Steve and his daughter saw a bulldozer clearing trees near their farm, signaling imminent development.
- He quickly contacted local landowners and within five weeks secured contracts on an additional 600 acres to protect the land.
Visiting Prairie Crossing Model
- Steve visited Prairie Crossing, a development near Chicago blending preservation and development.
- He learned the model could accelerate neighboring sprawl without broader policies to protect the area.
Suburban Development's Hidden Costs
- Post-WWII suburban development prioritized efficiency and individual property size over community and nature.
- This led to disconnected neighborhoods impacting mental health due to isolation and lack of nature.