The Fresno Miracle: What’s happened since

October 11. 2023

This event has passed, but you can watch the recording above!

The Petaluma Better Cities Film Festival concluded with a screening of "The Fresno Miracle," a 2012 film about what the people of Fresno have done to preserve the City's agricultural land, revitalize its downtown, and stop the sprawl that was bankrupting their city. Amid Fresno's progress and setbacks, the rudiment of a blueprint for sustainable action has emerged. 

Listen and watch Dan Zack, former Assistant Director of Planning and Development for the City of Fresno, to learn what's happened the decade since the film was made!

Dan will address the following question (and yours!):

  • How has Fresno been able to sustain the momentum of the original vision?

  • What were some of the critical factors in the City's successes?

  • What other steps has Fresno taken to revitalize its downtown since the film was made?

  • What are some of the victories and setbacks the city has encountered on its journey?

  • What policies have been put in place to ensure Fresno's ongoing financial viability? How has the City's financial picture changed since those policies were put in place?

  • What else is on the horizon for the City?

Sharon Kirk

Sharon joined Urban Chat in 2017 following a spontaneous meeting with Kevin McDonnell at the Petaluma Engagement Fair (sponsored by PCRC). Her interest in Petaluma city planning stems from her years of living in vibrant, walkable cities including San Francisco and Göteborg, Sweden. Sharon assists with Urban Chat promotional activities and acts as co-chair of the Know Before You Grow educational committee. And despite her hesitation as an introvert, she occasionally hosts events.

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