802C: Equity in the Planning and Design of Public Open Space

September 22, 2022

1:45PM - 2:15PM

We all recognize that public parks and open spaces are invaluable community assets, and we are seeing a greater appreciation for the role of the community in the design of these spaces. However, we still often find the planning, programming, and budgeting for these spaces rooted in an outdated paradigm with a narrow lens on whom these spaces are to be programmed and designed for — a paradigm that is systemically reinforced through policy, codes, and standards that persist today.

As planners, urban designers, and landscape architects, we play an important role in expanding perspectives, raising awareness, and empowering all user demographics in seeking representation of themselves and their needs in the design of places. We also play a pivotal role in working collaboratively with those who plan, fund, and maintain these spaces to truly enable design equity. Inclusive and equitable design acknowledges and welcomes open dialogue on the differences in values, needs, personal safety, sense of welcome, and barriers. In doing so, it can promote not only equitable access but also equitable enjoyment of a place by addressing differences in gender, culture, social demographics, age, and abilities.

So, how do we break out of systemic design thinking? Our base principle is to not make assumptions based on our own perspectives and experiences. We believe our role as professionals is to enable communities to see beyond what is to what could be while applying the professional lenses of design quality, practicality, and functionality. We will discuss means to question the status quo and how our profession can engage in an equity-based approach to the design of public spaces.
 

Speakers