30/10/2025
(forwarded from our friends at The Incremental Development Alliance )
We were deeply saddened to hear of the passing of Bruce Burton Tolar (October 21, 1954 – October 7, 2025). We honor the life and legacy of this remarkable family member, friend, architect, and dedicated community member who exemplified the heart of incremental development.
Bruce was a trailblazer in our movement. After Hurricane Katrina, he pioneered the innovative "Katrina Cottages" and created Cottage Square in Ocean Springs, Mississippi, a nationally recognized model for small-scale, thoughtful development that even drew a visit from then First Lady Laura Bush. He was instrumental in organizing developer bootcamps through the Incremental Development Alliance, sharing his expertise in attainable housing and system-built approaches. He was known affectionately as "Mayor Bruce," a 6’7" gentle giant with a booming laugh and generous heart.
Those who knew him remember his creativity, humor, and compassion. We invite you to read more about his life here. Bruce's presence will forever be felt in the communities he built and by the people he helped along the way.
Sincerely,
The IncDev Team
