By: Annabelle Thomas

Fort Collins, Colo.- Do you trust that if you dropped your wallet, someone in your city would return it? As it turns out, the answer to that question is an excellent indicator of whether or not your city is happy. In the book, Happy City, Montgomery explains that places where people trust each other “always score highest for life satisfaction”. One of the main ways cities can promote trust is to emphasize public spaces and walkability which allow people to gather, meet their neighbors, and make memories together. Additionally, this focus on connections promotes equity by providing equal access to necessities and comforts. Serving as a prime example of how urban planning can foster trust and promote urban happiness is Fort Collins, a city whose downtown area has a plethora of local businesses, outdoor areas, and, of course, delicious ice cream.

Human connection is a vital factor for happiness. In the United States however we chase the “American Dream” of a suburban house, a big backyard, and at least two cars. Unfortunately, the focus here is on getting further away from each other. We seem to think that the more space we have to ourselves the happier we’ll be, but research shows that this is not the case. After one’s income is enough to afford basic needs and pleasures, increases in happiness have much more to do with human connections and trust. According to this New York Times article, the happiest countries most notably “believe in one another and their governments”. Interactions that foster connections aren’t encouraged when everyone can get in their cars and shut out the world, but when communities have everything within walking or biking distance people get to know those around them. 

Interestingly, Disney’s Main Street USA was modeled after the town of Fort Collins, designed to be engaging through its walkable nature and variety of welcoming shops. Local businesses enhance accessibility, create a space where people want to get to know each other, and give each community a uniqueness to bond over. 

Fort Collins persistence to build safe bike paths aids those without cars, the parks and open spaces promote social connections, and paintings and pianos around town make art accessible. People feel included here, like they’re a part of the whole. This survey showed that trust and a “sense of belonging” strongly contribute to well-being and happiness, which Fort Collins continues to promote through these various avenues. In sum, people flourish with inclusion and connection, which are developed through Fort Collins’ exemplary model of people oriented design.