Upstream Strategies. Downstream Actions.

We help communities and organizations turn vision into reality, bridging strategy with implementation to build thriving places.

Upstream Downstream, LLC is a place-focused advisory firm that helps communities navigate the full arc of change from vision and strategy to practical, on-the-ground implementation. We work at the intersection of planning, placemaking, community investment, and local leadership to catalyze resilient and thriving places.

About Us

Rooted in Place. Flowing with Purpose.

We believe that upstream thinking — vision, planning, policy shapes downstream outcomes like economic opportunity, development readiness, place vitality, and community resilience. Like a river system, our work flows from insight to impact. Our work is grounded in lived experience, guided by local knowledge, and designed to move with the flow of community priorities.

What We Bring:

Strategic clarity in complex systems and policies
Deep understanding of rural and small-town dynamics
Facilitation and co-design that center community voice
Place-based, people-focused community development
Funding fluency and investment readiness
Practical support from vision to execution

Meet Our Founder & CEO

Richard Amore

Richard Amore is a rural community and economic development leader, professional landscape architect, certified planner, and educator with over two decades of experience advancing place-based strategies that strengthen local economies, resilience, and belonging. From small towns to statewide initiatives, Richard brings a collaborative approach rooted in equity, local leadership, and a deep belief in the power of place to shape community well-being and prosperity. Learn more about Richard.

Our Approach

We meet complexity with clarity and communities with care.

At Upstream Downstream, our approach is both strategic and relational. We believe durable solutions come from the intersection of systems thinking and place-based action. That's why we walk alongside our partners from upstream ideas to downstream implementation, helping translate vision into grounded progress.

Listen Deeply

We start with people, place, and purpose. Local voices and lived experience are our compass.

Map the System

We help communities see the big picture then find leverage points for meaningful change.

Co-Design Solutions

Our work is collaborative, practical, and tailored to each place.

Bridge Vision and Action

We turn upstream strategy into downstream momentum—supporting real projects, not just plans.

Stay Rooted

We build trust, support capacity, and walk with partners for the long haul.

Measure Impact

We track progress, celebrate wins, and adapt strategies based on real-world outcomes and community feedback.

What We Do

Bridging Vision with Implementation

We provide strategic advising and implementation support across the full arc of community development, helping turn big challenges into local impact through streamlined and practical approaches.

Strategic Advising

Helping communities and organizations align long-term vision with funding, policy, and partnerships for sustainable impact.

Vision alignment & strategic planning
Policy analysis & advocacy support
Funding strategy & resource development

Community and Place-based Investment

Designing inclusive, locally grounded approaches to capital and development for long-term community prosperity.

Investment strategy & capital planning
Community-led development approaches
Equitable development frameworks

Placemaking and Inclusive Mobility

Co-creating public spaces and mobility options that reflect local priorities and advance community wellbeing.

Public space design & activation
Transportation planning & accessibility
Community engagement & co-design

Livability and Resilience

Supporting climate adaptation, nature-based solutions, and infrastructure strategies for thriving communities.

Climate adaptation planning
Green infrastructure development
Resilience strategy & implementation

Why Upstream Downstream?

Because real change flows both ways.

We believe that system-level planning and grassroots implementation are two halves of the same whole. With deep experience in community development, place-based solutions, and community-led placemaking, we help turn complexity into clarity and turn big ideas into local impact.

Our work blends strategy with street-level action so every investment in planning, infrastructure, or development is grounded in place, people, and lasting outcomes. We believe that the most effective solutions are co-created with our clients as trusted advisors. We're co-thinkers, co-designers, and committed allies walking alongside our clients as they make lasting change in their communities.

Let's Build a Future Together!

Whether you're shaping a vision, aligning investment, designing a statewide program or revitalizing main street, or need support moving a project forward – we're here to help. Reach out today to explore how we can work together with purpose.

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UpStream DownStream