Urban planner Chuck Marohn, who is the founder of Strong Towns, will speak during a free event March 19 in Elkhart.
As the first speaker in the Building Blocks Talks series, he will spend two days in Elkhart County, including visits to the downtowns of Nappanee, Goshen and Elkhart.
“When it comes to understanding how cities grow and thrive, Chuck Marohn is in a class all his own,” said Jon Hunsberger, executive director of the Elkhart County Convention and Visitors Bureau, in a press release. “We’re excited for Chuck’s visit to Elkhart County so he can share his groundbreaking ideas and help us think through the best ways to manage the growth and prosperity we are enjoying in our cities.”
The Elkhart County Convention & Visitors Bureau, the Community Foundation of Elkhart County, Connect in Elkhart County and weIMPACT are partnering to bring the speaker series to the area, which is an extension of the Vibrant Communities in Elkhart County initiative.
“Most of us want similar outcomes in our community, particularly high-functioning neighborhoods,” said Dave Weaver, founder of weIMPACT Group. “We want great education systems, top-notch local retail, comfortable and professional work environments, housing that suits many, and cultural and civic buildings that instill pride of place. Are our actions leading to these outcomes? Elkhart County has all the necessary attributes to be a vibrant and aspirational community to invest in, educate in, and thrive.”
Marohn, who is a land use planner and civil engineer, is the author of two books with a third on the way. He also hosts a podcast called “Strong Towns.”
The March 19 event is open to the public at 6:30 p.m. in the Crystal Ballroom of the Lerner Theatre in Elkhart. Registration for the event is free.
