Sacramento Entrepreneur Advocates for Smarter Community Development

Chris Nicholas Vrame calls for practical innovation in real estate and sports to strengthen local communities.

Published on Mar. 6, 2026

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Sacramento-based entrepreneur and real estate developer Chris Nicholas Vrame is speaking out about the need for smarter community development and more adaptive recreational models in growing cities across America. Drawing from decades of experience in hospitality, sports innovation, and large-scale redevelopment projects, Vrame is encouraging developers, city leaders, and individuals to think long term when it comes to building communities.

Why it matters

Across the United States, housing demand continues to rise, yet many commercial properties sit underutilized due to outdated zoning and stalled planning. Vrame believes one of the biggest challenges facing communities is not lack of land, but lack of persistence and long-term planning. He advocates for mixed-use communities that can reduce commute times, support small businesses, and increase local economic resilience.

The details

Vrame acquired and redeveloped the Lakeside Business Park and Residential Planned Community in Elk Grove, California after years of inactivity caused by zoning barriers. The site now includes more than 300 single-family homes along with offices, restaurants, and service businesses. He also co-founded Arena Softball, an indoor adaptation of baseball designed to make the game faster and more engaging for youth.

  • Vrame acquired and redeveloped the Lakeside Business Park and Residential Planned Community in Elk Grove, California.
  • Vrame co-founded Arena Softball, an indoor adaptation of baseball.

The players

Chris Nicholas Vrame

A Sacramento-based entrepreneur and real estate developer known for co-creating The Tasting Room in Chicago, serving as co-founder and primary financial partner of Arena Softball, and leading the redevelopment of the Lakeside Business Park and Residential Planned Community in Elk Grove, California.

Lakeside Business Park and Residential Planned Community

A redevelopment project in Elk Grove, California that Vrame acquired and redeveloped after years of inactivity caused by zoning barriers.

Arena Softball

An indoor adaptation of baseball that Vrame co-founded, designed to make the game faster and more engaging for youth.

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What they’re saying

“Development isn't just about buildings. It's about creating places where people live, work, and connect.”

— Chris Nicholas Vrame (delawarenewsreporter.com)

“Nothing meaningful happens overnight. You build it step by step.”

— Chris Nicholas Vrame (delawarenewsreporter.com)

“When homes and businesses grow together, the community feels more connected. That stability matters.”

— Chris Nicholas Vrame (delawarenewsreporter.com)

The takeaway

Vrame's approach to community development and recreation innovation emphasizes long-term thinking, practical execution, and a focus on creating connected, resilient local communities. His work highlights the importance of responsible planning, adaptive solutions, and citizen engagement in shaping the future of growing cities.