Book Review: Fragile Neighborhoods

What Really Drives Community Change?

As planners, we’re always looking for ways to make our communities stronger—better streets, safer intersections, more vibrant public spaces. But Seth Kaplan’s Fragile Neighborhoods reminds us of something easy to overlook: it’s not just the plans or the projects that change communities—it’s the people and organizations on the ground.

Kaplan argues that many of the challenges we see—crime, isolation, economic decline—are symptoms of something deeper: neighborhoods losing their social fabric. His solution? Strengthen the local networks that hold communities together. This book dives into the creative and varying ways that people are doing this. The book highlights inspiring examples that range from a team in Detroit that turned an abandoned school into a community hub offering job training and youth programs to rural leaders in Appalachia blending education and social support to break cycles of poverty. 

For planners, at least for this planner personally, the takeaway is clear: our designs and policies matter, but they work best when they support the people and organizations already driving change. That might mean partnering with local organizations or nonprofits to run with something, or simply making sure our projects create opportunities for neighbors to connect.

Kaplan’s message is in line with the ABCD (Asset Based Community Development) and is a powerful message: even in struggling neighborhoods (maybe even especially in those places), there are assets—leaders, institutions, and networks—that can spark renewal. Our role is to help those sparks catch fire. As planners, we have a unique platform to amplify the work of those already strengthening neighborhoods. Don’t just plan for communities—plan with them. Reach out to local nonprofits, faith groups, and grassroots leaders. Invite them into the process early, and in meaningful ways. The partnerships you build today can turn good projects into transformative ones.

Bottom line: If you want fresh ideas on how planning can go beyond infrastructure, how we can activate and support the things that truly strengthen communities, Fragile Neighborhoods is worth a read.

Copilot Keys - How Planners Can Help

1. Start with People, Not Just Places
   Before drawing up plans, identify local leaders and organizations already making a difference. Build your projects and process around their strengths.

2. Turn Vacant into Vibrant
   Look for underused schools, churches, or commercial spaces that can become community hubs - they were probably the center of activity in the past and could be again.

3. Design for Connection
   Go beyond sidewalks and parks—think about how your projects create opportunities for neighbors to meet, collaborate, and build trust.