The Sidewalk Ballet Field Guide
The Sidewalk Ballet Field Guide is a growing collection of people, organizations, projects, books, ideas and ongoing conversations about cities and the people who shape them. It grows out of the podcast, but extends well beyond it—connecting the people doing the work, the places where it’s happening, and the ideas, experiments and resources worth carrying forward. Think of it as part reference library, part trail of breadcrumbs: a way to follow the conversation wherever it leads.
Explore by type, browse alphabetically or by date, or search for something specific. Follow the tags to discover connections—or explore the map to see where the people, projects and ideas in the Field Guide take us.
Kris Larsen
Kris Larson is President and CEO of Central Houston, Inc., where he works with business, civic, and community leaders to advance the continued growth and vitality of Downtown Houston and the city’s urban core. As the former Board Chair of the International Downtown Association and a longtime leader in downtown and place management, his work spans economic development, public space, transportation, planning, advocacy, and the partnerships needed to build strong and resilient city centers.
Bloor West Village BIA
Established in 1970, Bloor West Village became the world’s first Business Improvement Area, pioneering a model for collective investment in commercial districts that has since spread around the world. Today, the BIA continues to support its Toronto neighborhood through beautification, events, marketing, advocacy, and initiatives that strengthen the local business community.
Global Benefit District Innovation Club
GBD Innovation Club is an international network bringing together the organizations, public authorities, business leaders, and experts responsible for some of the world’s major business districts. Built around the idea that global business districts face many of the same challenges—from economic competitiveness and changing patterns of work to sustainability, public realm, mobility, and the evolving role of central business districts—the Club creates a forum for sharing knowledge, comparing approaches, and developing new models for urban districts.
Main Street America
Main Street America — A national network supporting community-led revitalization and the people working to strengthen downtowns and neighborhood commercial districts. Through the Main Street Approach, training, research, technical assistance, and a network of local programs, Main Street America helps communities build stronger local economies, preserve distinctive places, and create vibrant, welcoming centers of community life.