KECP: Building Better Cities | Protecting Nature
Building Better Cities | Protecting Nature
How innovative urban planning saves our rural landscape
Join us this month as our presenters explore how urban density actually curbs sprawl and protects nature, and offer an optimistic vision for happier, greener cities. Leading the discussion will be Travis Merrigan, writer for “The Urbanist” and Kevin Walthall from Strong Towns Kitsap.
Details:
Date: Sunday, September 20, 2026
Time: 3:00 - 5:00 p.m.
Where: The Village Green Community Center - 26159 Dulay Rd NE | Kingston
Flyer: Download, print and share
This is intended to be a family-friendly event - kids crafts and refreshments will be available. Please feel free to bring something to share!
About the presenters
- Travis Merrigan is an activist for safe streets in Bremerton, WA. He helped found the group Street Smart Bremerton and works to advance local and regional policies that improve multimodal transportation and reduce sprawl. He publishes regularly in the Urbanist online magazine on these topics. He co-founded the outdoor gear company, Grayl and lives in Bremerton w his lovely wife and two adorable children.
- Kevin Walthall is a freelance copywriter for non-profits like World Vision, and regular contributor to the Kitsap Sun newspaper, Nations journal, and Urban Bremerton blog. He tells the stories of world-changing people and organizations, and well-researched ideas that challenge us to action.
Follow along with presentation slideshows:
Artist feature: Melinda West
Renowned fiber artist Melinda West will be our featured artist, showcasing her work and philosophy.
Melinda West is a Seattle-born artist and teacher whose journey from pediatric nursing to basketry was inspired by an encounter with an old Coast Salish basket in her Indianola home. For more than four decades, she has explored the creative and cultural possibilities of plant-fiber weaving, with a focus on cultural connection, environmental stewardship, and the healing power of working with natural materials.
