Memphis Public Investment Guide
Rethinking neighborhood investments by placing power in the hands of residents through participatory budgeting
The Process: Accelerate Memphis – Invest in Neighborhoods launched in 2021 to activate projects identified in the City’s Comprehensive Plan. Focusing on 35 “anchors,” each location will receive $400,000 in public infrastructure investments. The investments will be determined by citizens through a participatory budgeting process.
We led the development of the Memphis Public Investment Guide – a toolkit to provide necessary background information about potential improvements that could be made in communities. Each potential investment is graphically illustrated and includes information about the costs and other details to help residents make informed decisions. We designed worksheets and materials for use in engaging with the public around the investment guide.
Results: Use of the guide for Accelerate Memphis has resulted in 13 completed community improvements, with seven in construction and more on the way. The City estimates $50 million invested in neighborhood anchors through 2023. Originally designed for the Accelerate Memphis initiative, the City adapted the guide for broader use which is now referred to as the Community Improvement Guide.