Steve Whitman and Chris Parker will explore the many problems facing communities of all sizes, and the underlying issue of ecosystem services. They will explore how thinking holistically and using a systems perspective can provide a new way forward for communities. While planning documents may take a systems perspective, land use regulations seldom do.

Walking is something that nearly everyone does daily. Not only is it our most reliable form of transportation, it's good for our collective health, has little impact on the environment, and is practically free. It makes sense that as a region we’d do all we could to make it as easy as possible to get people out and about—from our youngest (and most vulnerable) pedestrians to our seniors (who may not always feel as steady on their feet).