DT #573 Lighter, Quicker, Cheaper: Small Steps, Big Impact in Placemaking

Develop This: Economic and Community Development

In this episode, Joi Cuartero Austin is joined once again by Erik Reader for a lively and insightful conversation around the concept of Lighter, Quicker, Cheaper (LQC) — a placemaking approach that emphasizes small-scale, low-cost, and fast-to-implement strategies for revitalizing public spaces and neighborhood districts.

Originally popularized by the nonprofit Project for Public Spaces in the early 2000s, LQC continues to shape how communities reimagine their built environments — even today. We dig into real-world examples, lessons learned, and how communities are using this flexible framework to create a stronger sense of place, community, ownership, and vitality.

Topics Covered:

• What “Lighter, Quicker, Cheaper” means and where it came from
• How cities like Dallas, Richmond, Chicago, and Peoria are embracing DIY placemaking
• Examples of LQC success: from Better Block projects to guerrilla wayfinding
• Creative community engagement: pop-up shops, vacant lot activations, and DIY downtowns
• The power of “just trying something” and giving communities permission to act
• Metrics and outcomes: How small tests can lead to permanent change
• How LQC invites broader participation and fosters local pride
• What we'd personally love to try next in our own communities!

Mentioned Projects and Ideas:

• Better Block Dallas – transforming a corridor with temporary interventions
• Chicago’s Lakeview neighborhood – intersection redesign with chalk paint and bollards
• Walk Raleigh – unsanctioned wayfinding signs showing walk times to local spots
• Peoria “Ideas to Action” – pop-up engagement leading to funded community-led projects
• Parklets and outdoor seating – how losing a few parking spots can spark placemaking

Takeaways:

• You don’t need a million-dollar budget to make a meaningful impact.
• LQC gives communities permission to test ideas and rethink how they use space.
• Starting small can unlock new energy, increase public trust, and attract long-term investment.
• These quick wins can be a gateway to bigger, bolder revitalization strategies.