Zach DeBoer

Zach DeBoer is a Sioux Falls–based artist, educator, civic advocate, and creative consultant focused on creative placemaking and urban revitalization. His work includes public art, community-led design, and projects that support walkable, people-centered places.

Five Design Principles Can Make Downtowns More Walkable and Welcoming

Community designer Zach DeBoer argues that US cities built around cars have sacrificed the social, economic and safety benefits of walkable places. In his TEDx talk, he looks to Disney theme parks not as templates to copy, but as examples of how density, varied buildings, slower streets and local identity can make ordinary downtowns more inviting to explore.

TEDOct 25, 20269 min read