6. Work plan and sources
This chapter summarises the toolbox as a work plan. It can serve as a checklist for a new or existing neighbourhood initiative.
A 30-day start-up plan
Week 1: Problem and area
- Define the area and mark it on a map.
- Formulate three main problems.
- Gather photos, initial observations and existing plans.
- Establish a core team and communication channel.
Week 2: Strategy and goal
- Write your narrative in five sentences.
- Decide whether to focus on superblocks, tactical urbanism, street design or mobilisation.
- List decision-makers and potential allies.
- Define your first demand and next milestone.
Week 3: Visibility
- Plan a small public action.
- Organise a walk, a count or a street design session.
- Talk to residents, schools, shops or associations.
- Prepare materials for social media and local media.
Week 4: Evaluation and the next point of pressure
- Summarise results.
- Refine your demand.
- Contact district politicians, public administration or media strategically.
- Set the next date and assign tasks to complete by then.
Guiding principle
Good initiatives combine four things: a clear demand, a visible local group, a plausible spatial solution and evidence that change is needed and achievable.
Key sources
- Toolbox for City Changers: three workshops
- How to start superblock initiatives
- How to use tactical urbanism in Vienna
- How to work on strategies for change
- The street design workshop with Wir machen Wien
- Changing Cities
- Kiezblocks
- Prostorož
- Tactical Urbanism Guide
- LTN tool for low-traffic neighbourhoods