Ed McMahon – Frederick’s Future: Growth by Default or Design?

Based on his core “Secrets of Successful Communities” and “Growth by Default vs. Design” presentation framework delivered for CivicCon, the most impactful 2-minute section generally spans the transition into Character, Community Identity, and Choice:

• Default vs. Design: McMahon contrasts communities that simply accept whatever development happens to show up (“growth by default”) with places that actively articulate a clear vision (“growth by design”).
• The “Sense of Place” Principle: He emphasizes that every community has character, but only those that actively protect their distinct architecture, local assets, historic fabric, and natural entrance corridors remain memorable and economically resilient.
• The Cost of Sameness: He breaks down how failing to establish design standards leads to strip commercial corridors that could be anywhere in America, destroying local distinctiveness and long-term civic value.

For a taste of the presentation view 8:26–9:25 minutes. Full video link: https://hood.hosted.panopto.com/Panopto/Pages/Viewer.aspx?id=12ff9fe8-d8fc-4ac6-91a1-b35b016e9f92

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