He is former president of Scenic America, a national non-profit organization devoted to protecting America's scenic landscapes. McMahon is co-author of Balancing Nature and Commerce in Gateway Communities . How communities can gain control over fast-food franchise design, and see that it fits the character of the community. Including a tour of cities and towns that have done so.
Good design can mean more jobs and more tourists.
Trees also increase property values and can help boost a community's economic development. Regulation of on-premise advertising signs is one important means by which a community can assert control over its physical environment. The end result is not just a more visually attractive environment, but one in which businesses can actually communicate more effectively to their customers. Edward McMahon explains why this choice is so important. The conclusion of a two-part series.