Incremental

By: J. David Chapman/March 27, 2026

The dictionary defines incremental as “increasing gradually by small amounts.” It is a simple definition, but one that carries a powerful lesson for how we build better cities and communities.

Whether we are talking about fitness, education, or personal growth, the most lasting progress tends to come from steady, consistent improvement. The same is true in real estate and the built environment. Cities that evolve incrementally often prove to be more resilient, more authentic, and more financially sustainable.

In the planning world, this idea has gained significant traction. Groups like Strong Towns advocate for small, low risk investments rather than large, debt heavy projects. The Congress for the New Urbanism emphasizes human scale design and phased development. Even the concept of tactical urbanism is rooted in making short-term, low-cost changes to test ideas before making them permanent.

The common thread is clear. Cities work best when they improve a little at a time. There are several advantages to this approach.

First, incremental change reduces risk. A city can improve lighting, adjust traffic flow, or enhance streetscapes without committing significant resources upfront. If the change works, it can be expanded. If not, it can be adjusted without major financial consequences.

Second, it builds public trust. In my experience serving on city council, citizens rarely have the appetite for rapid, sweeping change. However, they are much more supportive of gradual improvements they can see, experience, and grow comfortable with over time.

Third, incremental development invites broader participation. Small scale projects such as facade improvements, adaptive reuse, and infill development allow local property owners and entrepreneurs to play a role in shaping their community. This leads to a more organic and economically durable urban fabric.

We see this play out in practical ways. Improved lighting enhances safety. Traffic calming measures make streets more walkable. ADA upgrades expand accessibility. Storefront and signage improvements signal reinvestment. Individually, these changes may seem minor. Collectively, they can transform an entire corridor or district.

This is not to suggest that large scale projects do not have their place. They do. But even the most impactful developments are often most successful when supported by a series of smaller, incremental steps.

In the end, building better places is not about one dramatic leap. It is about consistent, thoughtful progress. Just like in life, the best communities are shaped one small improvement at a time.

Dr. J. David Chapman is the Chair of Finance and Professor of Real Estate at The University of Central Oklahoma (jchapman7@uco.edu)