Case Studies 

Please note that these Hall of Shame nominations were written in a moment in time (most over a decade ago) and likely have since changed or even been transformed. If the above entry is now great, or still not so great, go ahead and comment below on how it has evolved or nominate it as a great place.

*Nominee 

MEMFix

Memphis

Tennessee

USA

Contributed by 
Project for Public Spaces
 on 
August 13, 2015
May 1, 2024

What makes it Great?

Why it doesn't work?

Memphis, Tennessee’s innovative MEMFix program offers a great example of how to successfully scale a one-off LQC event into a larger project and investment. The program began in 2010 as a way to reimagine the city’s dilapidated Broad Avenue. In 2010, along with local merchants and residents, the nonprofit organization Livable Memphis developed a Placemaking campaign to reimagine Broad Avenue—a rundown commercial strip in the city’s downtown. As part of an initial three-block streetscape exhibition, MEMFix projects, led by local volunteers, included adding protected bike lanes, pedestrian improvements, pop-up retail, and festive programming. Single day events, like neighborhood block parties, led to greater investments and more continuing programs such as MEMshop—a related retail incubator program. As projects and improvements multiplied, the transformation of Broad Avenue began to influence surrounding areas, and there were spin-off events in four other Memphis neighborhoods. The MEMShop component, which stimulated long-term investment, soon expanded to rural centers around the metro area as well. Using LQC strategies to activate storefronts, to make streets safer for bikes and pedestrians, and to bring the community together with creative programming and events, this program had lasting effects on the physical and social character of a downtown Memphis neighborhood. 

Access & Linkages

Comfort & Image

Uses & Activities

Sociability

How Light?

How Quick?

How Cheap?

History & Background

Related Links & Sources

Photo credits, from left: MEMShop via Facebook, MEMShop via FacebookCNN, Memphis CVB via Flickr, Memphis CVB via Flickr, Sarah Rossi via MEMShop website

Follow MEMFix

Website: memfix.org

Facebook: facebook.com/MemFix2013

Twitter: https: @LivableMemphis

Follow MEMShop

Website: memshop.org

Facebook: facebook.com/MemShop2012

Twitter: @memshop1

MEMFix
MEMFix creates an active commercial environment
MEMFix
Vacant Storefronts pre MEMFix
MEMFix
Tools such as public art and live music help revitalize a place
MEMFix
Reimagining the street as a dancefloor
MEMFix
Rehabbing retail, one facade at a time
MEMFix
One iteration of MEMShop at Overton Square
MEMFix
MEMFix creates an active commercial environment
MEMFix

*Please note that these Hall of Shame nominations were written in a moment in time (most over a decade ago) and likely have since changed or even been transformed. If the above entry is now great, or still not so great, go ahead and comment below on how it has evolved or nominate it as a great place.

NOMINATE A PLACE

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