Residents in New Orleans are encouraged to think creatively about St. Claude Avenue. The result? More trees along the street. Photo by St. Claude Main Street via Facebook.

If it was easier for citizens to create the neighborhood spaces they want most, what would they choose?

Crowdfunding of public assets gives us a hint. Independent films, art projects and small companies have all used crowdfunding to get off the ground and now residents are using the strategy to create the public spaces they want to see.