Drawing on over 25 years experience helping communities develop their potential, the authors share a ""framework for transformation"", covering historic preservation, tourism, recreation, government regulation, fundings, networking, education and follow-up. Using a ""bottom-up"" approach, rather than a ""top-down"", local leaders and community groups are discovering that development need not come at the expense of the environment or quality of living. The book uses personal examples of real people who moved from talking to taking action and developed their communities while maintaining what they valued most. It should be of use to chambers of commerce; community development practitioners and students; community business organizations; planning officials; tourism agencies; local governments; and adult and continuing education professionals. Examples and tips on successful community economic development projects are included.