How to Keep Your Hometown from Becoming a Ghost Town

Explore the power of storytelling in revitalizing declining towns and cities through this insightful TED talk. Discover how documentarian John Paget's fascination with disappearing communities led to uncovering remarkable comeback stories across the United States. Learn about the closure of Route 66 and its impact, as well as the roller-coaster history of Buffalo, New York. Gain valuable insights into the importance of sharing a town's "civic story" to spark local revitalization efforts. Examine case studies of community resilience, including the inspiring tale of the Barber of Seligman and the creation of the Seligman Visitor Center. Understand why storytelling matters in urban renewal and how it can be applied to address challenges like Covid relief. Delve into Buffalo's transformation into "America's Best Design City" and uncover strategies for keeping your hometown vibrant and thriving.

Intro
Ghost Town Story
Community Resilience
A Story Can Change the City
The Barber of Seligman
The Seligman Visitor Center
Why Story Matters
Covid Relief
Welcome to Buffalo
Buffalo Americas Best Design City