Just | Change Fellowship: Mapping Equity

RESEARCH IN PRACTICE

Connecting Equity Issues to Opportunities

MAPPING EQUITY

ABOUT THIS BOOK

JUST | CHANGE FELLOWSHIP

“The burdens and risks of climate change are not falling equally on everyone.

The poor and communities of color, who have typically contributed the least towards climate change, are shouldering a disproportionate share of the impacts of extreme heat, severe storms, flooding, and wildfires. This imbalance between who benefits and who suffers is similar to the patterns observed by those concerned with issues of environmental justice, where these same communities are often those with highest exposure to environmental hazards: air pollution, contaminated soils, toxic wastes.”

- Excerpt from EskewDumez Ripple 2023 Just | Change Fellowship Brief

THE FELLOWSHIP PROCESS

I joined EskewDumezRipple as the 2023-2024 Research Fellow, focusing on environmental justice in our dual office cities of New Orleans and the Washington D.C., where I grew up.

Traditional design practices often overlook the nuanced needs and opportunities within communities, leading to solutions that miss critical local issues and existing perpetuate disparities. To address this, throughout my fellowship, I engaged directly with local stakeholders through interviews, supporting ongoing initiatives, and building relationships. This approach consistently revealed that communities facing significant challenges develop creative, authentic solutions. These grassroots efforts in turn provide valuable lessons that can enhance and extend the impact of design, making them core to our practice.

This book is intended to teach readers how to connect equity issues to opportunities. The structure encourages readers to think differently, analyze site contexts critically, and evaluate project sites for equity-based opportunities, ensuring a more equitable impact.

Let’s create spaces that are responsive to the communities that they serve.

Aida Ayuk

Just | Change Research Fellow

EskewDumezRipple

HOW THIS BOOK WORKS

The book is divided into six chapters:

ENVIRONMENTAL IMPACT

QUANTITY OF PEOPLE

UNMET COMMUNITY NEEDS

INTERSECTIONALITY

TARGET AREA VULNERABILITIES

YES TO ENGAGEMENT

Each chapter overview is followed by an assessment metric:

ASSESSMENT METRIC

RELEVANT SUBTOPICS TO DEEPEN UNDERSTANDING OF THE BROADER TOPIC.

Following the assessment metric, to learn how to translate collected stories, data, and research into tangible applications, a number of subtopics topics are explored through a repeated series:

NARRATIVE

DEEP DIVE

SPATIAL MAPPING

CASE STUDY

KEY TAKEAWAYS FROM INTERVIEWS WITH COMMUNITY STAKEHOLDERS.

SUPPLEMENTAL IN-DEPTH EXPLORATIONS OF KEY ASSESSMENT METRICS.

SIMPLIFIED VISUALS OF THE WAYS TO INTERPRET EJ SCREENING DATA.

KEY ASSESSMENT METRICS EXAMINED THROUGH BUILT PROJECTS.

“Sometimes, it takes a natural disaster to reveal a social disaster.”

- Jim Wallis

Assessing a site and its surroundings for environmental stressors like natural disasters, temperature extremes, and pollution is not just a technical task—it’s a window into understanding an area’s well-being and resilience. Environmental stressors go beyond physical impacts; they profoundly influence our senses, shaping how we experience and engage with our environment on a daily basis. For instance, consider a coastal town vulnerable to hurricanes; this reality prompts not only investments in storm protection for immediate safety but also fosters long-term resilience strategies that enhance communities.

The aftermath of natural disasters often unveils underlying social and economic vulnerabilities in communities. In New Orleans, Hurricane Katrina exposed systemic inequalities in housing and emergency response, highlighting the urgent need for equitable disaster preparedness and recovery plans. Similarly, heat waves in urban areas disproportionately affect low-income neighborhoods with limited access to green spaces or air conditioning, revealing systemic issues in urban planning and social equity. Many of these communities are also impacted by industrial pollution often face health disparities, emphasizing the importance of environmental justice.

It’s critical to address environmental stressors not as obstacles but as opportunities to innovate and enhance experiences. By integrating sustainable and resilient design principles, spaces can withstand environmental pressures and increase well-being and inclusivity.

To address risk, assess existing and emerging factors for their Environmental Impact

ENVIRONMENTAL

ASSESSMENT METRIC

HISTORICAL EVENTS

Environmental impacts of past industrial accidents, natural disasters, or human activities providing critical context for current conditions and potential vulnerabilities.

ANTICIPATED RISK

Potential or expected future threats such as climate change effects, invasive species, or land use changes proven by scientific models and expert predictions.

ECOLOGICAL CHANGES

Shifts in biodiversity, habitat loss, species populations, and ecological interactions caused by human activities or natural phenomena that impact ecosystem health.

SYSTEMS IN PLACE

Existing infrastructure and physical systems, as well as policy frameworks, such as environmental management systems, regulatory compliance, and programs.

TEMPERATURE

Long-term trends and fluctuations in temperature, including seasonal variations, extremes, and climate change impacts on ecosystems and human health and behavior.

AIR QUALITY

Measured levels and types of pollutants such as particulate matter, volatile organic compounds, and ozone in the atmosphere and the identified sources of pollutants.

ECOSYSTEM POLLUTION

Contamination and spread of pollutants in ecosystems (soil, water bodies, or marine environments) by pollutants like heavy metals, pesticides, plastics, or chemical spills.

SENSORY POLLUTION

Non-chemical stressors like noise pollution (transportation, industry, or urban activities), or light pollution (artificial lighting disrupting natural rhythms and behavior).

Connect Experiences to Larger Issues

“The grass in the park is looking patchy and yellow; it’s disappointing.”

“The road noise is so bad; I can’t get a good night’s sleep.”

“The temperature seems to be changing more than usual.”

“The river always looks murky and discolored; it’s really worrying.”

“I’ve noticed there are fewer birds in my yard lately.”

“The air feels so heavy today; I can barely see across the street.”

“Power outages seem to be happening more frequently; it’s getting frustrating.”

“The flooding in my yard is getting worse; I can’t manage it.”

“It feels like the humidity is getting worse; I’m having trouble breathing.”

"There's a strange smell in the air; I don't know where it's coming from."

"The weather looks ominous; are we safe here?"

“I’m dreading how many times we’ll need to boil water this year.”

“I’m worried about flooding during the next storm; are we really prepared?”

“The summers feel hotter every year. I heard we set a record high last month.”

Comments reflect general sentiments from community conversations in New Orleans. 2023. EskewDumezRipple.

This is a story about turning individual concerns into collective action.

SCALING COMMUNITY

COMMENTS

Recognizing links from individual concerns to broader societal impacts emphasizes the crucial role of systems thinking in uncovering connections to our practice, revealing root issues that can be addressed at a building scale.

Dana Eness, Executive Director of the Urban Conservancy, leads key programs in New Orleans. The Stay Local initiative supports local businesses, the Basin Program educates children on land use and water issues, and the Front Yard Initiative incentivizes homeowners to remove paving and adopt green infrastructure.

“The problem we identified in 2015 came to us through constituents saying, ‘Hey, I’m noticing this [increased flooding] happening in my neighborhood.”

DANA ENESS

Executive Director

The Urban Conservancy

The FYI program began in response to flooding concerns due to neighbors’ excessive paving. Instead of penalizing homeowners, they fund the removal of excessive paving and guides residents through the logistics of designing and installing a stormwater management project. Recognizing homeowners’ unique needs and lifestyles, Urban Conservancy developed a FYI toolkit with EskewDumezRipple to empower residents in the design process.

MEASURING QUALITATIVE BENEFITS

With a commitment to supporting minority-owned small businesses, the program has fostered intergenerational connections, exemplified by the two-woman stormwater management team, Mastodonte, who have built a meaningful relationship with a Lakeview retiree participating in the program.

“They became such close friends, and there’s a 40-year age difference. They’re from very different backgrounds, but they really loved each other’s company. They just loved each other.”

By funding over 154 projects, the program goes beyond quantitative metrics to emphasize residents’ well-being. It serves as a model for equitable stormwater management while also fostering job growth, social cohesion, and empowering residents to lead city improvements.

“The goal was to create a movement of people where the more they knew, the more excited they got and the more invested they got in green infrastructure and nature-based solutions.”

“They’re noticing. They’re feeling a difference. They’re feeling better about living here and feeling good about what they’ve done. They’re educating their neighbors about why it’s important and voting for things related to water management. They’re engaging and feeling empowered, informed.”

- DANA ENESS

ORIGIN OF THE LEVEE SYSTEMS

The “keep the water out” approach dates back to early French and Spanish settlers who recognized the need to control water levels in this marshy region. Levee construction began in the late 18th century with earthen embankments reinforced with logs and brush. Over time, these methods have advanced with improvements in engineering and materials, with agencies like the Army Corps of Engineers playing a crucial role in maintaining and enhancing the city’s flood defenses. ENVIRONMENTAL

In flood-prone cities, effective flood protection is essential for safety and stability. New Orleans faces unique challenges due to its location and water history. Subsidence, the gradual sinking of land caused by fault movements, soil compaction, and drying of organic material, exacerbates the city’s flood risk. The drainage system, while intended to manage excess water, prevents rainwater from soaking into the ground, which accelerates land subsidence.

Situated largely below sea level and bordered by the Mississippi River and Lake Pontchartrain, New Orleans is highly susceptible to flooding from storm surges and heavy rainfall. Levees play a critical role in protecting areas and infrastructure from inundation. Without them, the

city would face constant flood threats. However, levees also contribute to subsidence by restricting the flow of the Mississippi River, which hampers the natural deposition of sediment that once replenished land during regular floods.

Keep the Water Out.

a valuable resource. By focusing on more than just flood protection, water management practices can mitigate risks while enhancing urban biodiversity, water quality, and community health. Engaging and educating the community about these practices fosters greater support for sustainable water management.

Green infrastructure, such as bioswales, rain gardens, and permeable surfaces, manages stormwater runoff by slowing, absorbing, and

multiple benefits. Green spaces created through these systems improve urban ecosystems, offer recreational opportunities, enhance air quality, lower temperatures, and provide wildlife habitats. Integrated strategies support sustainable water use, and collaboration between public and private sectors can accelerate the implementation of these approaches, advancing a comprehensive and effective urban water management system.

Greater New Orleans Urban Water Plan. September, 2013. Living with Water ©. Waggonner & Ball.

FLOOD ZONES

Site: Gentilly Neighborhood, New Orleans

Location of the Mirabeau Water Garden and Stormwater Lots Project case studies.

ENVIRONMENTAL IMPACT

SPATIAL MAPPING

ISOLATE & SIMPLIFY SIGNIFICANT FACTORS

When investigating environmental impacts, the process can begin with focusing on a specific factor for detailed analysis. For example, the Gentilly neighborhood marked on the map is located in a FEMA flood zone, with additional flood zones surrounding the area. This highlights the critical importance of effective water management strategies.

Proposed strategies should address the specific needs of the individual neighborhood while also considering the broader processes and impacts of natural disasters. It’s important to note additional compounding effects and adapt management approaches to reflect both critical local conditions and overarching environmental challenges.

ASSESS HOW THESE FACTORS AFFECT THE LARGER ISSUE

Environmental impact priorities vary significantly by city, with different levels of concern. Regarding flooding, while some cities may focus on critical infrastructure or transportation vulnerabilities, New Orleans emphasizes safeguarding the population, reflecting the city’s unique considerations.

HISTORICAL EVENTS

New Orleans’ history of flooding, underscores the city’s vulnerability and the importance of resilient infrastructure and community preparedness.

ANTICIPATED RISK

With the increasing frequency and intensity of storms due to climate change, the likelihood of severe flooding in New Orleans remains high throughout the city.

ECOLOGICAL CHANGES

Rising sea levels and subsidence continue to alter New Orleans’ landscape, impacting wetlands and natural barriers, thereby increasing the city’s susceptibility to flooding.

ENVIRONMENTAL IMPACT

CASE STUDY

MIRABEAU WATER GARDEN AND STORMWATER LOTS PROJECT

CONSIDER SCALES OF INTERVENTIONS

COMMUNITY STORMWATER PROJECTS

Mirabeau Water Garden. City of New Orleans. (Unbuilt). Waggonner & Ball.

Single lots can add up to make a big difference that’s equal to one large lot like Mirabeau Water Garden.

Water management spans various scales, and understanding ongoing city efforts is crucial to support or take on efforts tackling challenging issues such as permitting, excessive paving removal, or large scale initiatives.

In Gentilly, New Orleans, the Mirabeau Water Garden by Waggonner & Ball and Carbo Landscape Architects will transform a damaged convent site into a green space for water management. Donated by the Congregation of St. Joseph after Hurricane Katrina, the project honors the convent’s legacy of community service. It will use bioswales and native grasses to reduce flooding, tap into existing drainage systems, and enhance local infrastructure to address critical drainage needs.

Similarly, in Gentilly, the Dana Brown & Associates’ Stormwater Lots project, in partnership with the New Orleans Redevelopment Authority (NORA), leverages vacant residential lots for water management. By implementing green infrastructure and custom drainage systems, the project aims to ease the burden on the city’s drainage system, manage runoff, and reduce localized flooding, enhancing neighborhoods. These transformed lots will also serve as small parks, enriching community green spaces.

Beyond environmental benefits, both projects set a new standard for urban water management and serve as educational and recreational centers, engaging residents with nature and sustainable practices.

THIS IS A HOLISTIC STORMWATER MANAGEMENT PROJECT

The Dana Brown & Associates Stormwater Lots project, managed with NORA, addresses post-storm infrastructure strain with green solutions, serving as community spaces.

HISTORICAL EVENTS

YES TO ENGAGEMENT

In both scales of projects, active community engagement fosters pride and a sense of ownership amongst neighborhood residents in water management initiatives, blight elimination efforts, and aesthetic improvement. The collaborative effort between the two organizations and other stakeholders underscores the significant role of leveraging private land for broader public sustainable development goals.

Gentilly has faced significant environmental challenges due to historical flooding, exacerbated by subsidence and aging drainage infrastructure. Both projects reimagine community spaces to mitigate anticipated flooding through a resilience lens.

ANTICIPATED RISK

Climate change effects are expected to increase the frequency and severity of flooding in New Orleans. Both projects are designed to anticipate and mitigate these risks through innovative engineering and multi-functional nature-based solutions.

ECOLOGICAL CHANGES

The two example projects, though varying significantly in scale, both use naturebased design principles to enhance groundwater infiltration, improve water quality, and reduce subsidence, while supporting native plants and wildlife.

Stormwater Lots Project. New Orleans, LA. 2017. Dana Brown & Associates. New Orleans Redevelopment Authority.

This story is about working together on small issues to address large scale urban issues.

RENEWING A CITY’S CANOPY

Sustaining Our Urban Landscape (SOUL)’s commitment to New Orleans extends beyond planting trees; they embrace a strategy that spans education, advocacy, and community engagement. Through the Community Forestry Project, they strategically plant large, native trees, to address critical issues such as flooding, subsidence, and public health. The Educational Series explores the significance of urban trees, reaching a diverse audience, including community partners, professionals, and students eager to expand their knowledge.

They champion a no-net-loss tree policy, working to protect trees on both public and private property. The volunteer programs attract people from around the country, enabling them to contribute to New Orleans’ urban forest by planting

trees in clusters. This hands-on approach not only supports the city’s reforestation plan but also provides participants with a meaningful way to make a positive impact while fostering camaraderie.

New Orleans, devastated by Hurricane Katrina in 2005, lost over 200,000 trees due to standing floodwaters that were polluted and brackish, combined with high winds. The city has struggled to recover, and despite subsequent efforts, its tree canopy now covers just 18.5%. Recognizing the crucial role a robust tree canopy plays in enhancing resilience to storms and climate change, SOUL, in partnership with the Mayor’s Office, has created a comprehensive Reforestation Plan for New Orleans and is actively implementing it with the help of volunteers.

Operating as an opt-out program, staff and volunteers navigate numerous conversations about trust and intention with local residents. The nature of the work also brings together people eager to engage in informal discussions about challenges and potential actions in neighborhoods.

FOSTERING

Formal outreach initiatives involve engaging with professionals, city employees, and community members through roundtable meetings and public forums, gathering valuable feedback on reforestation challenges and effective strategies.

These collaboration efforts are accompanied by rigorous research, including satellite data analysis to make informed planting decisions and track maintenance and overall coverage. In addition, SOUL works with arborists and landscape architecture firms to tailor their approach to the unique conditions of New Orleans.

SOUL’s multifaceted approach aims to replenish the city’s green cover and foster a deeper understanding of the profound impact trees have on our communities, planting a healthier and more resilient future for New Orleans.

ENVIRONMENTAL

DEEP DIVE

DID YOU KNOW?

Our city’s health...

REDUCE CLIMATE STRESSORS

Our cities are undergoing a notable change, with environmental stressors playing a pivotal role in shaping public health challenges and hostile social dynamics. Longer and more intense heat waves are a prominent factor driven by the well-documented heat island effect prevalent in densely populated regions.

The urban landscape, characterized by concentrated structures, nonreflective surfaces, and limited greenery, contributes to elevated temperatures and an intensified urban heat island effect. This, in turn, impacts public health and human behavior. The effects go beyond mere discomfort; they manifest as serious health hazards such as respiratory problems, exhaustion, and heat strokes.

Additionally, there is a notable increase in aggression and violence. A report by the Bureau of Justice Statistics highlights a seasonal rise in violent crimes, especially during summer months. Hot weather raises body temperature, heart rate, and

blood pressure, which can escalate anger and violence. Moreover, noise pollution in urban areas further aggravates violent tendencies, with studies linking higher crime rates to increased noise levels.

Cities can address these challenges by prioritizing green infrastructure, such as parks and tree-lined streets, to reduce noise pollution and heat. Incorporating cool pavement technologies and promoting public and active transportation can also help lower pollution and health risks.

Developing emergency plans and raising awareness are crucial for creating safer urban environments. Interdisciplinary efforts to educate communities and policymakers are essential, especially in formerly red-lined areas where minorities are the majority. These communities often lack green spaces and face higher pollution levels, which worsen health impacts. Addressing these issues with effective mitigation strategies is vital as environmental challenges continue to escalate.

Daytime Temps

18 Degree Difference Between Neighborhoods

Average Median Income: $2,500 Average Median Income: $5,000 Average Median Income: $10,000 18° Average Median Income: $40,000 Average Median Income: $150,000 Average Median Income: $175,000 Average Median Income: $200,000 Average Median Income: $30,000 Average Median Income: $20,000

Hotter Neighborhoods People of Color: 80-99%

Cooler Neighborhoods People of Color: 10-50%

ENVIRONMENTAL IMPACT

SPATIAL MAPPING

This map shows that when an area has multiple issues that overlap, it makes each issue worse.

Air Quality

TOXIC RELEASES TO AIR

Assess relative impact, presenting a percentile based on the average annual levels of certain chemicals and associated harm.

91st PERCENTILE

Site: Bywater Neighborhood, New Orleans Location of the Crescent Park case study.

Site

95th

PERCENTILE

Ecosystem Pollution

LEAD PAINT EXPOSURE

Assess relative impact, presenting a percentile based on housing units built before 1960, indicating potential lead exposure.

Temperature

URBAN HEAT ISLAND HOTSPOTS

Relative heat severity hot spots, categorized by the Jenks Natural Breaks method, revealing the health hazards posed by heat, particularly for vulnerable populations.

CASE STUDY

CRESCENT PARK

REVEAL, MITIGATE & MANAGE STRESSORS

CITY PARKS

MITIGATE STRESSORS

Crescent Park, a 1.4-mile linear park in New Orleans, transforms a former maritime/industrial brownfield into a 20-acre green space with indigenous landscaping, walking, jogging, and biking paths, picnic areas, a dog park, and the adaptive reuse of two industrial wharves along the Mississippi River.

Emerging from the Reinventing the Crescent Development plan after Hurricane Katrina, Crescent Park was developed through collaborations with local firms like EskewDumezRipple and Hargreaves Associates, reconnecting the city with its historic riverfront.

The park’s resulting soil remediation and sustainable landscaping makes it an important environmental asset. It mitigates the urban heat island effect with shaded areas, green spaces, and vegetation that reduce heat stress and improve air quality. Positioned partly on high ground within the levee system and incorporating permeable surfaces and rainwater harvesting,

Crescent Park also lowers flood risks and enhances water quality. Despite its industrial past and current usage that causes noise and light pollution, the park’s natural features and levee buffer help reduce sensory pollution.

Community engagement was crucial in Crescent Park’s development. The design team worked with a Steering Committee, Stakeholders Group, and held over a dozen forums, integrating neighborhood feedback. The final design received a standing ovation, and the development process was publicly documented.

Beyond its environmental benefits, Crescent Park is a new public space destination offering recreation and serving as a hub for community events and artistic expression. It also has provided a refuge for displaced residents revealing broader social issues such as housing insecurity and economic disparities while boosting tourism and local economic growth. ENVIRONMENTAL

ENVIRONMENTAL IMPACT CASE STUDY

THIS IS AN URBAN PARK IN NEW ORLEANS THAT ADDRESSES MULTIPLE EXISTING CHALLENGES

Crescent Park in New Orleans, a 1.4-mile linear park along the Mississippi River, addresses environmental, social, and public health challenges. It features sustainable designs to manage water, reduce pollution, and mitigate heat, while fostering social cohesion and supporting economic growth.

SYSTEMS IN PLACE

The Reinventing the Crescent Development plan integrates sustainable landscape practices and modern urban planning within the levee system. This approach reconnects the city with existing infrastructure while preserving the levee flood wall.

TEMPERATURE

Crescent park addresses urban heat island hot spots and resulting heat and respiratory health impacts. Through the creation of shaded areas, green spaces, and native vegetation, the park lower temperatures and mitigates risk in the surrounding areas.

ECOSYSTEM POLLUTION

Lead paint in nearby areas poses local risks as it can leach into soil and water from deteriorating surfaces. Although the park didn’t directly remediate the site, its new landscaping with fresh soil and plantings supports safer community use.

SENSORY POLLUTION

The former industrial site still faces issues with persistent transit noise. The park’s natural landscapes, quiet areas, and existing levee buffer create a more peaceful environment, reducing the negative impacts of urban sensory stressors.

Crescent Park. New Orleans, LA. 2014. EskewDumezRipple, Hargreaves Associates.

Crescent Park

Adaptive reuse and new design can work together to reimagine the existing to bridge gaps and foster social justice.

ENVIRONMENTAL IMPACT

ASSESSMENT

ITALY PAVILION MILAN EXPO

REDUCE RISK WITH SUSTAINABLE FEATURES

INTEGRATED CLIMATE MITIGATION

Palazzo Italia in Milan is designed to tackle the city’s air quality and climate challenges, addressing issues from its location in a valley and extreme temperature fluctuations. The building incorporates advanced insulation materials and reflective surfaces that stabilize indoor temperatures, reducing energy consumption despite varying external conditions.

A notable feature is the use of over 2,000 tons of i.active Biodynamic cement. This material combats air pollution by using sunlight to drive chemical reactions that convert harmful nitrogen oxides (NOx) and sulfur dioxide (SO2) into inert salts.

With this approach, the building can reduce local emissions by up to 75%, significantly enhancing air quality for its occupants, in a city where pollution often exceeds European limits due to industrial activities.

The building’s envelope is designed to improve energy efficiency and mitigate the prominent urban heat island effect. Solar panels on the roof further cut reliance on external energy sources, achieving a 40% reduction in energy use and approaching near-zero energy consumption.

Palazzo Italia also features green infrastructure such as permeable pavements, green roofs, and rainwater harvesting systems. These elements act as natural filters, reducing stormwater runoff and pollution while supporting local biodiversity.

By thoughtfully integrating materials and systems to address specific environmental risks, the project enhances urban resilience and sets a new standard for projects in urban environments facing various stressors.

THIS IS A HEADQUARTERS BUILDING IN MILAN, ITALY THAT MITIGATES AIR AND WATER POLLUTION

Palazzo Italia addresses local environmental challenges through its use of innovative materials and energy-efficient design. The building’s use of i.active Biodynamic concrete actively reduces emissions, while its integrated systems reduce water runoff and lower energy consumption.

TEMPERATURE

Milan’s climate extremes, with hot summers and freezing winters, driving up the need for indoor temperature control but also have notable implications for air quality and exacerbate urban heat island effects within the city.

AIR QUALITY

Milan, like many industrialized cities, contends with air pollution primarily stemming from traffic congestion and industrial emissions, exacerbating respiratory health concerns and environmental degradation.

ECOSYSTEM POLLUTION

In Milan, the landscape is dominated by concrete and asphalt, preserving green spaces and mitigating pollution runoff are imperative to prevent soil degradation, loss of biodiversity, and water contamination,

Palazzo Italia. Italy Pavilion Milan Expo. Milan, Italy. 2015. Nemesi & Partners. Adapted from a Photo by Luigi Filetici.

QUANTITY OF PEOPLE

ASSESSMENT

POPULATION

POPULATION

POPULATION

POPULATION

AGE STRUCTURE

MIGRATION

URBANIZATION

HOUSING STOCK

“The census is the spine of democracy; without it, the public lacks the true knowledge of itself, and government decisions are made without all the facts.”

- Kenneth Prewitt

Understanding and leveraging Quantity of People data goes beyond mere numbers; it serves as a pivotal lens through which we can comprehend intricate societal dynamics and fortify resilience in communities. Delving into demographic nuances such as population size, migration patterns, age distributions, and residential dynamics offers profound insights into the evolving fabric of communities and their adaptive capacities. This comprehensive understanding isn’t just about statistical analysis; it forms the cornerstone of informed decision-making, guiding policies and resource allocations to address societal needs effectively.

Moreover, this data plays a pivotal role in uncovering underlying challenges and disparities, especially in the aftermath of crises or natural disasters. Similar to how post-disaster assessments unveil systemic inequalities, demographic analyses offer a comprehensive view of vulnerabilities, enabling us to design and implement targeted interventions for equitable disaster preparedness and recovery efforts.

By reframing the data as a catalyst for informed action and inclusive planning, we transform challenges into opportunities for innovation and community enhancement. Integrating sustainable and resilient design principles not only fortifies spaces against environmental pressures but also fosters holistic well-being and inclusivity, ensuring that our built environments evolve in harmony with the diverse needs and dynamics of the populations they serve.

To understand populations, breakdown what factors shape Quantities of People .

POPULATION SIZE

The total number of individuals residing in a specific geographic area, region, or country at a particular point in time to for understand need and resource allocation.

POPULATION DENSITY

The number of people per unit area, such as square kilometers or square miles, to analyze crowding levels, urbanization trends, and environmental impacts.

POPULATION DISTRIBUTION

The spatial arrangement of people within a region or country, indicating patterns of urbanization, rural depopulation, and the concentration of populations.

POPULATION GROWTH RATE

The percentage change in population over a specified period, considering births, deaths, immigration, and emigration rates, crucial for predicting future trends.

AGE STRUCTURE

The proportion different age cohorts within a population, including children, working age adults, and elderly people influencing healthcare, workforce, and support systems.

MIGRATION TRENDS

Patterns of movement of people into and out of an area, including immigration, emigration, and internal migration, influencing diversity, labor markets, and cohesion.

URBANIZATION

The extent of infrastructure and building development in an area, indicating its level of urban versus rural characteristics, as well as development patterns and impacts.

HOUSING STOCK

The number and variety of residential properties in an area, including single-family homes and apartments, reflecting availability, condition, diversity, and affordability.

This story is about unraveling connected issues through a local perspective.

INFORMAL LISTENING SESSIONS

While planting trees in the Lower Ninth Ward, a conversation with a neighbor—a local African American man living in a neglected area right against the Industrial Canal— uncovered deeper societal issues. This neighbor’s concerns about a concealed fire hydrant revealed broader problems, such as neglected stormwater management projects and disparities in city-wide maintenance, particularly in areas heavily populated by African Americans. These issues reflect deeper systemic inequities related to race and socioeconomic status, demonstrating uneven access to essential services.

This dialogue also highlighted the disconnect between city priorities and the actual needs of the community. It brought attention to low voter turnout, exemplified by the 27% participation rate in the 2023 state elections in Orleans Parish, and pointed to demographic breakdowns related to voter engagement. This suggests potential disparities in

political representation and indicates that marginalized communities, like those in the Lower Ninth Ward, might be inadequately represented in decision-making processes.

The conversation also touched on the imminent Industrial Canal expansion project, a 13-year plan involving the widening of locks, replacement of bridges, and implementation of floodwater management strategies with bypass channels. Despite these efforts to address environmental concerns, such as emissions and increased flooding risks, the neighbor’s skepticism stems from a history of unfulfilled promises and fears of displacement. His skepticism reflects a deep-seated distrust in the government’s commitment to genuinely addressing the needs of his community

This situation underscores the need for transparency and meaningful community engagement, ensuring that communities are well-informed decision-makers. The skepticism voiced by residents like this neighbor highlights the importance of involving affected communities in the planning process to build trust and ensure that development efforts address local needs. By tackling demographic disparities and fostering inclusive development, collaborative efforts can achieve more equitable and effective outcomes across diverse populations.

Investigate Communities with Data

ZOOM OUT TO SEE THE BIGGER PICTURE.

What is Redlining? Redlining marked neighborhoods as too risky for mortgage loans, mainly impacting areas where Black and minority residents lived. This practice was linked to racial segregation and discrimination, deepening economic and social inequalities.

1619

Arrival of enslaved Africans, start of systemic racism.

1865

Civil War ends, but Jim Crow laws enforce segregation.

1917-1940s

Great Migration highlights regional disparities.

1787

Three-Fifths Compromise at the Constitutional Convention

1896

Plessy v. Ferguson officially legalizes segregation.

1960s-Present

Industrial zoning practices target black neighborhoods.

1980s-Present

War on Drugs incarcerations target black communities.

1930-1960s

Redlining legally hinders Black American progress.

BESTSECTION OFTHECITY

NEGROS CROWDING WHITE MEN SLUMS SLUMS

NEAR EMPLOYMENTINDUSTRIAL AREPEOPLEFRUGAL

ROWHOUSESNEGRO

HIGH CONCENTRATION OF FOREIGNERS

NEGROS SCATTERED FORECLOSURES

NO THREAT OF INFILTRATION

TOUGHEST SECTIONOFTHECITY

OBSOLESCENCE

NEGROSLUMS

HOMESSCATTERED WITHOUTPLANNING

DUMPS

ALLTYPES OFNEGROS

AREAISRUNDOWN

AGEDANDOBSOLETESTRUCTURES

FACTORS OF A FRAGILE POPULATION

Before Hurricane Katrina struck on August 29, 2005, the Lower Ninth Ward was a relatively unknown working-class neighborhood. The hurricane, accompanied by major levee breaches, caused destructive flooding, transforming the Lower Nine into a symbol of converging destructive forces, the hurricane itself, the geographical vulnerability, government neglect, and urban poverty with racial polarization.

This event marked a turning point, prompting a significant demographic shift as the historically integrated area became a predominantly African American community. The Lower Ninth Ward’s isolation from central New Orleans, both literal and figurative, was amplified by the hurricane, bringing national attention to the area’s precarious geography variables.

The subsequent displacement of residents reflect the intersectionality of issues faced by vulnerable communities. Investigating flood data, heat data, air quality data, and factors such as race, language, age, disabilities,

unemployment, and housing burden are critical in understanding displacement, influenced by climate change, economic inequality, and systemic injustices. Anti-displacement strategies can prevent these injustices, with substantial financial investment, building coalitions, and fostering collaboration between stakeholders in historically affected areas.

Designers can play a role in minimizing these challenges by understanding the overlap of disasters, vulnerability, and racial injustice to engage in meaningful ways. This includes promoting sustainable design practices, raising historical awareness, and advocating for comprehensive rebuild efforts beyond constructing new homes.

Success also depends on a holistic approach that prioritizes accessible services, public transportation, flood protection, and support for displaced residents seeking to return home. Only through such comprehensive efforts can the multifaceted challenges faced by the community be effectively addressed.

The Lower Ninth Ward. 2015. New Orleans, LA. Adapted from a Photo by Ricky Carioti. The Washington Post.

Throughout much of the 20th century, the federal government, through the Home Owners’ Loan Corporation (HOLC), used red-lining to grade neighborhoods from A ("Best") to D ("Hazardous"), predominantly rating neighborhoods of color as C or D. This discriminatory practice systematically stifled economic growth, contributing to long-term disinvestment. These

factors, along with changing population dynamics, provide context for the contrasting development of adjacent neighborhoods, Broadmoor and Gert Town. Michael Robinson, a community organizer involved in public housing projects, and Pamela Waldron-Moore, a Professor of Political Science at Xavier University, shed light on other internal factors exacerbating these disparities.

Gert Town Population: 6,621 Density: 6,769/sq mi.

Broadmoor Population: 5,212

Site: Location of the Rosa F. Keller Library and Community Center case study.

IDENTIFYING EXISTING DYNAMICS

MICHAEL ROBINSON Lead Organizer

Jericho Road Episcopal Housing

Broadmoor, initially noted as a mix of middle to high-income professionals, leveraged community mobilization in their post-Katrina recovery, supported by Carnegie and Kellogg foundation funds and guided by a Harvard plan. Michael highlighted a vital campaign’s unifying impact.

“They used [the Green Dot campaign] as an organizing tool to say, ‘Hey, look, they’re trying to tear down our neighborhood.’”

PAMELA WALDRON-MOORE Professor of Political Science

Xavier University

“There was a perception from Gert Town that they were separate. The castle [Xavier University] on one side, separated by this moat, and the poor people on the other side looking for stuff. A lot of that played into who got left behind.”

The lack of resources, property acquisition, and organizational means led to unexpected migration. This struggle, marked by depopulation, was worsened by the presence of a DDT plant and soil radiation.

INTERNAL COMMUNITY CHALLENGES

The Green Dot campaign, sparked by opposition to the city’s plan to convert Broadmoor into green space, unified residents. Broadmoor also had an internal tax-funded development organization, allowing for a full-time staff and supporting initiatives like the revitalization of the Keller Library.

In contrast, Gert Town, initially noted as a diverse low-income neighborhood, faced worsening challenges due to conflicts between internal nonprofits and Xavier University’s expansion, leading to significant displacement after Katrina, as Pamela described.

“When you have industrial plants in communities, nearby workers find it’s easier to get employed there. While Broadmoor was getting money from big agencies, people in Gert Town took what could from the chemical plant.”

Although adjacent neighborhoods, Gert Town faced ongoing barriers that hindered its revitalization. This underscores the complexities of urban development and the need to address each neighborhood’s unique population dynamics.

QUANTITY OF PEOPLE

CASE STUDY

ROSA F. KELLER LIBRARY AND COMMUNITY CENTER

F IND OPPORTUNI T IES FOR LAST ING IMPACT

RESILIENCE THROUGH UNITY

Broadmoor’s Rosa F. Keller Library and Community Center in New Orleans is a powerful symbol of resilience and community-driven urban development in the wake of Hurricane Katrina. The neighborhood’s journey to recovery and renewal is a testament to the strength and determination of its residents

After Katrina, Broadmoor, like many predominantly Black neighborhoods, was severely impacted, with the original 1993 library flooded by over two feet of water. The city’s controversial “green dot” plan proposed converting these neighborhoods into stormwater management sites, effectively erasing them from the map. However, the people of Broadmoor, led by the Improvement Association, refused to accept this fate.

In a show of unity, the community rallied together, securing funding and resources to rebuild their neighborhood. Through a series of community workshops, they envisioned the Rosa F. Keller Library and Community Center not just as a place for books, but as a cultural and educational hub that would anchor their renewed sense of purpose and

belonging. Completed in 2012, the facility reflects the neighborhood’s identity, blending the renovation of a historic 1917 residence with a new structure that embodies the community’s aspirations.

The project also highlights the broader issue of equitable resource distribution. While Broadmoor’s revitalization is a success story, other neighborhoods like Gert Town continue to struggle with resource scarcity and lack of representation. The Keller Library serves as a model for how inclusive urban development can meet the diverse needs of all communities, fostering resilience and ensuring that every neighborhood has a voice in the city’s future.

Sustainability is woven into the very fabric of the library, which features LEED-certified elements that manage stormwater, alleviate pressure on city infrastructure, and support local ecosystems. The Rosa F. Keller Library and Community Center stands as a beacon of what can be achieved when cultural heritage, sustainability, and community vision come together in the pursuit of collective well-being.

THIS IS A LIBRARY IN NEW ORLEANS, LA THAT REFLECTS ON POPULATION STRUCTURE AND POWER

The Rosa F. Keller Library and Community Center in Broadmoor, New Orleans, embodies a communityoriented resilience project amidst demographic shifts and population challenges. Completed in 2012, the library symbolizes community unity and proactive local efforts in revitalizing neighborhoods.

POPULATION DISTRIBUTION

Broadmoor’s had significant demographics shifts between tracts which emphasized the need for a central hub. This facility would not only serve Broadmoor but also surrounding neighborhoods lacking sufficient density for resources, like Gert Town.

POPULATION GROWTH RATE

Broadmoor experienced a decline in population rates. Residents, leading rebuilding efforts, emphasized the importance of reinvesting in valuable community resources to enhance quality of life and attract residents back to the area.

MIGRATION TRENDS

Broadmoor’s flood risk highlighted migration patterns linked to natural disasters, community resources, and safety. This stressed the necessity of deliberate actions, including creating resource hubs and fostering trust and resilience through rebuild.

Rosa F. Keller Library and Community Center. New Orleans, LA. 2012. EskewDumezRipple. Original Concept Sketch.

Rose F. Keller Library and Community Center

Community-driven revitalization leverages deep local insights to transform challenges into opportunities, allowing design to honor both legacy and evolving needs.

ASSESSMENT

ST. PETER RESIDENTIAL, NEW ORLEANS

CREATE MODELS FOR SCALABLE INI T I AT I VES

RESILIENCE BUILDS RELIABILITY

St. Peter Residential, a 50-unit mixedincome residence in New Orleans that primarily serves veterans, addresses critical needs for affordable housing and net-zero energy consumption. Its passive design and advanced technologies, including a highly efficient HVAC system, lighting controls, and energy-efficient appliances, reduce energy demand.

The project strategically addresses concentrated housing needs among low-income families and veterans in urban settings. By offering affordable housing options that serve a wide boundary of people in need, St. Peter Residential contributes to equitable access to stable housing solutions across multiple neighborhoods.

St. Peter Residential integrates renewable energy sources such as 450 solar panels and a battery array, developed with SBP and Entergy. This infrastructure ensures uninterrupted operation, demonstrated during Hurricane Zeta in 2020 and Hurricane

Ida in 2021, when the residence maintained power while the city faced prolonged outages, becoming a lifeline for surrounding communities.

This proof of concept has inspired initiatives like Together New Orleans (TNO)’s lighthouses proposal to establish microgrid hubs at religious institutions, enhancing the project’s credibility and setting a precedent for future developments that could ensure predictability and resilience.

Beyond its sustainability model,

St. Peter Residential plays a crucial social role by providing housing for veterans, including single mothers returning from deployments in conflict zones like Iraq and Afghanistan. The residence offers amenities such as a wellness center, communal spaces, and recreational areas, significantly enhancing the quality of life for diverse residents. These services highlight the project’s understanding of how broad population dynamics can inform urban development strategies.

450 solar panels supporting net-zero energy goals.

THIS IS AFFORDABLE HOUSING IN NEW ORLEANS, LA THAT PRIORITIZES KEY POPULATIONS

St. Peter Residential is a 50-unit mixed-income residence in New Orleans, prioritizing veterans. Leading in sustainable design and social impact, it creates a creditable model for affordable housing with its net-zero energy consumption, resilient infrastructure, and targeted amenities.

POPULATION DISTRIBUTION

In certain areas of New Orleans, low-income families and veteran populations face concentrated housing needs. This project strategically provides affordable housing to multiple neighborhoods to ensure equitable access to stable housing options.

POPULATION DENSITY

With New Orleans’ urban setting in mind, this project prioritizes sustainability to mitigate environmental impacts in densely populated areas. By integrating renewable energy and minimizing energy demand, it contributes to healthier environments.

AGE STRUCTURE

Recognizing New Orleans’ diverse demographics, this project prioritizes veterans returning from deployments, addressing overlooked community groupings. By offering targeted amenities, it improves residents’ quality of life across various life stages.

St. Peter Residential. New Orleans, LA. 2020. EskewDumezRipple. Adapted from a Photo.

UNMET COMMUNITY NEEDS

“The test of our progress is not whether we add more to the abundance of those who have much; it is whether we provide enough for those who have too little.”

- Franklin D. Roosevelt

Unmet Community Needs are pivotal elements of essential services or resources that are inadequately provided or entirely lacking within specific geographic areas or among particular demographic groups. These needs span a spectrum ranging from access to quality healthcare, affordable housing options, equitable educational opportunities, viable employment prospects, essential social services, to necessary infrastructure improvements. Recognizing and comprehensively understanding these unmet needs is crucial for developing targeted interventions, policies, and programs aimed at improving overall community well-being and addressing systemic disparities that hinder progress and growth.

Understanding these multifaceted challenges requires a collaborative effort involving community stakeholders, policymakers, nonprofits, and businesses. By engaging in participatory research, data collection, and dialogue with affected communities, we gain insights into the root causes and intricacies of unmet needs. This informed approach enables the development of strategic interventions that are not only responsive but also sustainable and tailored to the unique contexts of each community.

Moreover, addressing unmet community needs goes beyond short-term fixes; it requires long-term planning, investment, and commitment to equitable development. By prioritizing these needs in policy agendas, allocating resources judiciously, and fostering partnerships across sectors, we can create build robust systems for a more just and thriving society.

To create opportunities, identify an area’s

UNMET COMMUNITY NEEDS

ASSESSMENT METRIC

NEEDS ARE UNMET IF

HEALTHCARE SERVICES

Facilities such as hospitals, and basic services such as pharmacies and clinics are located more than a mile away in urban areas or beyond a ten-mile radius in rural areas.

HEALTHY FOOD

Supermarket or large grocery store offering affordable and healthy food options are located more than a mile away in urban areas or beyond a ten-mile radius in rural areas.

PUBLIC TRANSPORTATION

Urbanization, poverty, transit cost burden, availability of transit services, travel times to essential services, digital access, and safety factors have a high cumulative impact.

PUBLIC SPACES

Accessible small spaces are located more than a 5-minute walk, larger spaces more than 10-minute walk. There’s a lack of city spaces for organized recreation and events.

CULTURAL RESOURCES

Permanent institutions, facilities, or events that contribute to the preservation, cultural heritage, traditions, arts, history, and diversity are located more than two miles away.

AFFORDABLE HOUSING

Households in a census tract are making less than 80% of the area median family income (AMFI) by region and spending more than 30% of that income on housing.

QUALITY EDUCATION

Educational facilities offering comprehensive and quality education are located more than two miles away in urban areas or beyond a fifteen-mile radius in rural areas.

LOCAL BUSINESSES

Businesses such as gas stations, laundromats, retail stores, banks, and post offices are located more than a mile away in urban areas or beyond a ten-mile radius in rural areas.

This is a story about urban agriculture’s role in combating food deserts and historical inequities.

CULTIVATING FOOD EQUALITY

In Central City, Dimitri Celis, Program Manager at Recirculating Farms, is a steward for sustainable agriculture. The seemingly lively urban landscape harbors a longstanding void—a void created by the absence of accessible grocery stores, replaced by corner stores offering processed and unhealthy food. However, their team challenges the label of Central City as a “food desert,” unraveling the intentional disinvestment and historical policies that have shaped the community.

“There’s a growing narrative within the food justice scene that desert implies a naturally occurring thing, but it’s not just by chance that there’s no grocery store in Central City. This happened because of policies that the government sanctioned back in the 40s from the FHA and the redlining maps and the VA and all the racist loaning practices.”

DIMITRI CELIS

Program Manager

Recirculating Farms

“We’re trying to let people know that this is why we grow here. It’s not just because it’s a food desert, but because it’s intentionally not being invested in.”

Past initiatives aimed at addressing food deserts have focused on utilizing existing corner stores rather than building new grocery stores. However, challenges arise because many stores struggle to stock items like produce due to high turnover rates and the risk of lost profits. Food deserts are not just about access to food but also about access to affordable food.

“One thing that we’ve talked about is, what does it mean to have access to affordable food? Affordable food is not just subsidizing the cost down so people can afford it. Affordable food also means paying people a living wage so they can buy the food that we’re producing too.”

COMMUNITY GROWTH CHALLENGES

Expanding urban agriculture means creating jobs and affordable housing. Yet, challenges around land use, ownership, and historical context persist, with thousands of vacant lots raising questions about access and ownership demographics.

Recirculating Farms faced their own challenges, including moving after eviction. They now have long-term land tenure through NORA’s Growing Green program, which provides property to organizations like Recirculating Farms for development, with an option to purchase after three years. While the program facilitates the use of unused

city property for community projects, the issues arises from market rate pricing regardless of use. This is mirrored in the nonprofit’s desire to buy a lot between their gardens, but the market value is unaffordable.

“We should be flipping the script on what it means to own property.”

Dimitri argues community projects should be treated differently from standard developments, a position rooted in social goals. To do this, we must develop means to quantify ecological services and value development based on city needs.

Maybe development, development, development is not the route that we should take, especially if the development is not sustainable development.”

Community Garden and Urban Farm in Central City, New Orleans. Recirculating Farms.

ENVIRONMENTAL IMPACT

DEEP DIVE

HISTORY’S INTENTIONAL DESERTS

Intentional deserts, which symbolize limited access to crucial resources like food, financial services, and healthcare, have deep roots in historical government policies that perpetuated systemic disadvantages.

This includes the discriminatory practices of the Federal Housing Administration (FHA) in the 1930s, which promoted racial segregation and redlining by denying loans and services to minority communities, particularly Black neighborhoods. This led to the concentration of poverty and lack of investment in these areas, creating lasting economic and social disparities.

Similarly, post-World War II, the Veterans Administration (VA) implemented discriminatory loan practices that disproportionately denied housing benefits to minority veterans under the GI Bill. These policies restricted opportunities for upward mobility and wealth accumulation among marginalized communities, contributing to the formation of modern-day deserts characterized by limited economic resources and opportunities. These

historical instances underscore the systemic nature of disadvantages, encompassing food insecurity, compromised health and safety, and limited access to employment, quality education, and green spaces.

Considering intersectionality reveals the varying impacts on vulnerable populations, influenced by factors such as race, socioeconomics, and geographic location. Recognizing deserts as products of systemic choices highlights the need for comprehensive solutions.

Prioritizing investments in youth is essential for disrupting cycles of poverty and inequality. By providing educational resources, mentorship, and safe recreational spaces, these efforts can help prevent violence and reduce incarceration rates, as systemic mistreatment and lack of opportunities often contribute to cycles of disadvantage and social marginalization. By breaking these cycles and promoting policies that promote equity and inclusivity, we can promote an environment that benefits all members of society.

This map shows that intentional resource deserts are often linked.

Quality Education

NEW ORLEANS’ SCHOOL AVERAGE GRADE

Louisiana Department of Education 2023

annual A-F letter grades: 69.9/150: C overall.

Site

GRADE

Site: Treme Neighborhood, New Orleans

Location of the Edible Schoolyard case study

UNMET COMMUNITY NEEDS

SPATIAL MAPPING

IDENTIFY & ADDRESS INTERCONNECTED NEEDS

When investigating unmet community needs, the process begins with identifying critical service gaps. In Central City, education is a significant concern—not just due to a limited number of schools, but because of inconsistent quality. Disinvested areas often face multiple, overlapping issues. They may struggle with

educational quality, lack accessible green spaces essential for physical and mental health, and experience food deserts due to the absence of stores offering affordable, healthy food for comprehensive shopping. By addressing these interconnected issues holistically, we can understand and tackle the broader challenges.

ASSESS HOW THESE FACTORS RESULT IN COMMUNITY GAPS

After identifying and addressing interconnected needs, determine and assess relevant impact topics. This involves evaluating how each identified issue affects various aspects of community well-being, such as health, economic stability, and social cohesion, to prioritize interventions.

QUALITY EDUCATION

In New Orleans, quality education is hindered by long commutes to better-scoring schools within the charter network. With nearly 70% of city schools receiving C or D grades, reformed or supplemental education opportunities are needed.

HEALTHY FOOD

Neighborhoods in New Orleans face food desert challenges, due to limited access to affordable, nutritious options. Integrating food education into curriculums can help address this issue and promote food security among low-income students.

PUBLIC SPACES

Central City in New Orleans grapples with extensive impermeable surface coverage, surpassing 71%, resulting in a scarcity of green spaces. Inclusive outdoor learning and recreation spaces within walking distance are needed for safe youth development.

This story is about promoting inclusive education to create equal opportunities.

CREATE LEARNING LANDSCAPES

“It’s all about offering opportunities and access. Low-income students should have access to the same holistic, high-quality education as their more privileged peers.”

Charlotte Steele, director of Edible Schoolyard New Orleans, is dedicated to fostering connections through outdoor learning environments in FirstLine Schools. The program serves a diverse demographic, mainly comprising of Black and Spanishspeaking students facing poverty and food insecurity. The program views its gardens as community resources, sharing yields to address the unmet community needs. New Orleans students tend to have strong food identities from growing up, cooking with their families and hearing about local culinary legends. Edible Schoolyard’s programming offers diverse access and shapes student paths and identities.

CHARLOTTE STEELE

Director

Edible Schoolyard

“Not only are we providing the seeds of experiences that help students build their identities and relationships with food in the natural world, we’re also supporting their academic achievement. There’s a lot of ways that we integrate academics into our classes, but the life skills and the social emotional learning is at the forefront of what we do.”

In 2018, Edible Schoolyard worked with EskewDumezRipple to transform Phyllis Wheatley’s teaching garden spaces aligned with their values of ‘beauty is the language of caring.”

“The coolest part of having built a physical structure is that its legacy is indefinite. The number of students who will benefit from having that space to make academic connections, learn through a social-emotional lens, and build their gardening and cooking skills is just so many.”

YES TO ENGAGEMENT

Engagement with teachers was essential in guiding the design of the outdoor classrooms. As key figures who have a close relationship with the space, their input brought intentionality to the project, emphasizing multifunctional spaces for activities, planning areas for plant cultivation, and focusing on community food production.

“There are a lot of visitors that walk up and down our street, and they stop in their tracks. They understand that the students who go to our school are extremely important and valuable and smart, and they see them learning in a really wonderful, comfortable, curiosity inspiring space.”

- Charlotte Steele

QUALITY EDUCATION

Responding to the lack of specialized educational opportunities, Edible Schoolyard’ classrooms foster holistic learning experiences that integrate academic achievement and social-emotional learning, promoting comprehensive education for all students.

HEALTHY FOOD

By integrating food education and healthy eating habits into their curriculum, Edible Schoolyard’s classroom addresses the lack of accessible healthy food options within urban areas and promotes food security among low-income students.

PUBLIC SPACES

Through their inclusive outdoor learning environments and community programs, Edible Schoolyard creates visually open spaces catering to the need of youth to have areas for organized programs and access to safe green spaces in walking distance.

Edible Schoolyard Garden at Phillis Wheatley Community School. New Orleans, LA. 2017. EskewDumezRipple. Adapted from a Photo.

UNMET COMMUNITY NEEDS

DEEP DIVE

Connect Study Findings to Impact

EDUCATION & COMMUNITY CONNECTIONS

The integration of food gardens and green spaces into community planning and design is not only about addressing health concerns but also aligns with broader societal goals, including economic, social, and environmental sustainability. This approach recognizes the multifaceted benefits of such initiatives and their potential to dismantle systemic barriers while promoting resilience in communities.

Urban communities, particularly those in food deserts, face major challenges with food insecurity. Food gardens, whether initiated by community groups or part of larger urban farming projects, play a crucial role in mitigating this issue. Studies demonstrate that increased

access to healthy food through these gardens enhances dietary choices and positively affects cognitive development, especially among children and youth, underscoring the significant impact these initiatives can have on long-term dietary habits.

Food gardens in educational settings offer more than dietary benefits; they significantly enhance academic and cognitive performance. Exposure to green environments has been linked to improved focus, motivation, and engagement among students. These hands-on experiences not only reinforce classroom learning but also provide valuable lessons about plant life cycles, environmental science, and sustainable practices. The active involvement in gardening and healthy eating contributes to a more engaging and effective educational experience.

Community gardens do more than grow food; they foster social interaction, community building, and cultural exchange. Increased vegetable intake is linked to both better access and the connections formed among users, enhancing social cohesion and neighborhood ties.

Edible Schoolyard Garden at Phillis Wheatley Community School. New Orleans, LA. 2017. EskewDumezRipple.

MENTAL HEALTH & EQUITY

From an environmental perspective, urban farming and green spaces contribute to sustainable practices and environmental stewardship. Practices such as composting, water conservation, and organic gardening techniques are commonly integrated, promoting eco-friendly behaviors and reducing environmental impact. Green spaces also provide essential ecosystem services, including air quality improvement, temperature regulation, and natural disaster mitigation, which directly impact community health and well-being.

Natural environments have been linked to reduced stress, anxiety, and depression levels. Spending time in nature enhances cognitive functioning, attention, and overall well-being. These spaces offer opportunities for relaxation, physical activity, and connection to nature, contributing to improved mental health outcomes across age groups. Despite the evident

IN LOUISIANA,

1/7

STRUGGLE TO PROVIDE HEALTHY MEALS FOR THEMSELVES

benefits, there are equity challenges related to access to green spaces and food gardens. Low-income and minority communities often face limited access to quality green spaces, and healthy food options, contributing to health disparities. Recognizing and addressing this requires intentional planning, resource allocation, and community engagement to ensure equitable access to these resources.

Designers play a vital role in ensuring the success and sustainability of food gardens and green spaces within urban environments through implementation and advocacy. Participatory design processes, community engagement, and collaboration with local stakeholders are essential for creating inclusive environments. Incorporating design elements like accessible pathways, multi-purpose spaces, educational and wayfinding signage, and cultural relevance enhances the impact of these community spaces.

EDIBLE SCHOOLYARD

STUDENTS REPORT EATING LEAFY GREENS

CHILDREN LIVE WITH FOOD INSECURITY OVER 200K 4X

MORE OFTEN THAN STUDENTS ACROSS THE UNITED STATES

“Associations Between Nature Exposure and Health” 2021. International Journal of Environmental Research and Public Health. Feeding Louisiana. Current Hunger Facts and Statistics for Louisiana. 2024.

UNMET

CASE STUDY

CASA ADALANTE 2060 FOLSOM

DESIGN EXCELLENCE IS HOLISTIC PROGRAMMING

BEYOND TRADITIONAL SHELTER

Casa Adelante 2060 Folsom, in San Francisco’s Mission District, addresses community challenges through a joint venture between TNDC and MEDA. It focuses on housing Latino families, providing space for organizations serving Latino children and youth, and featuring communityreflective art.

With 127 permanently affordable units, the project tackles housing insecurity in a district where nearly half of households struggle with high housing costs. The $106 million project was funded by a culmination of Federal Low Income Housing Tax Credits, tax-exempt bonds, and investments from the Mayor’s Office, Bank of America, the Federal Home Loan Bank, and others.

The success of Casa Adelante is due to strong partnerships. The Felton Institute offers affordable childcare, Good Samaritan Family Resource Center provides family support services, and PODER works on environmental justice and immigrant rights. Larkin Street Youth Services supports homeless and at-risk youth,

while HOMEY empowers youth through mentorship. First Exposures and Youth Speaks share a space for youth storytelling, combining photography and arts education.

Casa Adelante prioritizes education, offering on-site childcare, after school programs, and counseling. HOMEY, First Exposures, and Youth Speaks play crucial roles in these efforts.

Championing cultural preservation, Galería de la Raza promotes Latinx and Xicanx art and culture, making Casa Adelante a cultural sanctuary.

Addressing food insecurity, the project integrates urban gardens and community-supported agriculture. On-site healthcare services and counseling address residents’ physical and mental health needs.

Casa Adelante 2060 Folsom represents a shift in affordable housing development, integrating services to address unmet community needs and exemplifying the impact of affordable housing led by and for people of color.

THIS IS AN AFFORDABLE HOUSING PROJECT IN SAN FRANCISCO, CA THAT OFFERS HOLISTIC SUPPORT

Casa Adelante 2060 Folsom is a affordable housing development in San Francisco’s Mission District. Prioritizing education, culture, healthcare, and food security, the project offers on-site childcare, public art, urban gardens, and healthcare services, marking a holistic approach.

AFFORDABLE HOUSING

San Francisco’s Mission District grapples with acute housing insecurity, with nearly half of households facing high housing costs. This project offers 127 permanently affordable units, providing long-term stability and addressing systemic barriers.

HEALTHY FOOD

Food insecurity is prevalent in neighborhoods like the Mission District. This project combats this issue with urban gardens and community-supported agriculture initiatives, ensuring residents have access to nutritious food and social connections.

HEALTHCARE SERVICES

In underserved communities like the Mission District, access to healthcare is often limited. This project addresses this gap by providing on-site healthcare services, including counseling, to address residents’ physical and mental health needs.

QUALITY EDUCATION

Many residents in underserved communities face barriers to quality education and opportunity. This project prioritizes education as a pathway to empowerment by providing on-site childcare facilities, after school programs, and counseling services.

Casa Adelante at 2060 Folsom. San Francisco, CA. 2021. Mithun and Y.A. Studio. Adapted from a Photo.

Casa Adelante 2060 Folsom

There’s no best equity choice, but we can meet unmet needs through collaboration and integration.

This is a story about losing the sense of community amidst local changes and challenges.

OBSERVED COMMUNITY CHANGES

Alison Toussaint-LeBeaux, a proud New Orleans native and custodian of family-owned properties, intimately understands the transformation of Treme over the years. Once hailed as the Mecca of music, Treme holds cherished memories for Alison, especially the vibrant sounds of second lines and the close-knit community spirit that defined her children’s early years. Like many neighborhoods, Treme has experienced pivotal moments that signify a changing landscape, often resulting in population shifts in urban areas.

ALISON TOUSSAINT-LEBEAUX

Community Stakeholder

Property Owner

“We were trying to teach our kids how to ride a bike. They couldn’t ride on that street, so we used to go to Armstrong Park. Then they started locking the gates to the park from the one entrance we had. After a while, it felt unwelcoming. The things that we had at our disposal, the natural things that seemed free to all of us, started becoming less and less available.”

The challenge of finding safe spaces in disinvested neighborhoods like Treme illustrates broader issues: deficiencies in one area often trigger cascading problems. The fragmentation and loss of community culture are closely linked with broader concerns, such as the availability of quality education and affordable housing.

AFFORDABLE HOUSING & OWNERSHIP

“Typically, people of color don’t have credit or the money to buy a house. Normally, we have to rent. I think people are being pushed out because the rents are unavailable, they’re inaccessible. It’s almost impossible to live in that area.”

In New Orleans, an added economic pressure comes from short-term rentals, making up approximately 3.5% of all occupied housing units in the city, one of the highest rates for similarly sized cities. The shift from long-term residents to short-term rentals has disrupted the identity and child-friendly nature of Treme, further compounding existing challenges.

“Like so many other areas of this city, it’s forgotten. I would love to see green space there. Just open space where people can be. Where you can kick around a ball and it doesn’t roll in the street, and you

Alison, recognizing firsthand the livability impact of gentrification and racially driven property ownership challenges, remains steadfast in preserving Treme’s affordability through her own properties to share its history.

“I’ve always made [my rental properties] affordable because I want people to experience that area. It has almost the entire history of New Orleans packed into it.”

These challenges underscore systemic discriminatory practices that have persisted for decades, hindering Black homeowners from improving their homes and increasing their value, especially for those with limited reserves compared to their white counterparts. Despite this, Alison remains invested in the renewal of Treme’s rich

PRIVATE PUBLIC SPACES

Public spaces have always been the heartbeat of cities, adding character and fostering community connections. Traditionally managed by local governments, spaces like parks and plazas are now joined by Privately Owned Public Spaces (POPS). Coined by Professor Jerold S. Kayden, POPS often refer to public areas that, although privately owned, are legally required to be open to the public under city zoning ordinances, land-use laws, or to receive certain incentives. These spaces aim to enrich urban life, enhance street-level connections, and serve as valuable assets for property owners.

POPS provide urban oases, fostering social interaction and community ties. Activities like music performances and recreational sports can thrive, turning these areas into dynamic hubs. Integrating POPS with commercial spaces also makes adjacent areas attractive to high-end tenants.

However, POPS face challenges due to their private ownership. Security measures can restrict access and deter visitors. Balancing security and openness is crucial. Innovative design and unobtrusive surveillance can help maintain accessibility, ensuring these spaces remain vibrant and inclusive.

It’s a Private Space...

CREATE GENEROUS SPACE

Beyond formalized POPS, there are always opportunities to create public spaces without incentives. Opening up entire city blocks for public circulation or setting back properties to create shared spaces can make urban areas more inviting. Courtyards or circulation areas with no barriers between private and public spaces encourage organic interaction. These less formal spaces, free from restrictions, offer an inclusive atmosphere that can be enjoyed equally by the public and private sectors.

The blurred lines between public and private spaces extend beyond parks to schools, hospitals, and shopping centers, all of which can be publicly accessible yet privately

owned. Public art space exemplifies this dynamic, reaching diverse audiences and provoking debate. POPS and informal public spaces must balance accessibility with security. Thoughtful initial design and inclusive planning can make these spaces valuable urban assets, fostering community engagement and enhancing property values. Prioritizing openness and rethinking security measures ensures these spaces benefit both public and private interests, contributing to vibrant, livable cities. Finding this equilibrium is crucial for sustainable urban development. Negotiating these principles in projects can transform urban areas into thriving, inclusive communities that cater to diverse needs and aspirations.

UNMET

SPATIAL MAPPING

This map shows that spatially unmet needs may appear met.

Housing Burden

Housing Burden

CLAIBORNE AVENUEI-10 EXPRESSWAY

Site

LOUISARMSTRONGPARK

Housing Burden

Housing Burden

LAFITTEGREENWAY

Site: Treme Neighborhood, New Orleans

Location of a proposed bus shelter based on the Living Canopies case study.

UNMET COMMUNITY NEEDS

SPATIAL MAPPING

CONSIDER FACTORS ADDING TO AREA LIVABILITY

Improving area livability involves assessing interconnected services. In areas lacking essential services, interventions aim to enhance wellbeing, requiring careful consideration to inform future initiatives. Urban renewal projects in Treme have introduced park spaces, but not all meet community needs or are

accessible. Increased transportation infrastructure has inadvertently hindered public transit effectiveness, compounded by road pollution, posing risks to residents. Moreover, demographic shifts resulting from renewal efforts may disrupt community cohesion, and lead to gentrification and affordability issues.

ASSESS HOW THESE FACTORS AFFECTS THE EXISTING

Identify key impact topics to evaluate the effects of existing services and interventions on area livability. This assessment provides insights into the broader implications of current initiatives and guide the development of future strategies to address community needs effectively.

AFFORDABLE HOUSING

In Treme, a historic African American community, cultural disinvestment and gentrification has led to an affordability crisis, with households spending over 30% of incomes on housing costs, worsening demographic shifts and threatening its legacy.

PUBLIC TRANSPORTATION

In New Orleans, access to resources relies on efficient public transportation, managed by the Regional Transit Authority (RTA). However, in areas like Treme, health and safety concerns persist due to extensive traffic emissions.

PUBLIC SPACES

In New Orleans, Treme’s Louis Armstrong Park, created in the 1960s, is often closed and more accessible to tourists than residents. Additionally, the Lafitte Greenway offers a trail connecting neighborhoods but poses safety concerns with automobile crossings.

UNMET COMMUNITY NEEDS

CASE STUDY

LIVING CANOPIES BUS SHELTER

IMPROVE SERV I CES W I TH ECO- INFRASTRUCTURE

INTEGRATED CLIMATE MITIGATION

In Hyattsville, Maryland, plans are underway to introduce living bus shelters as an advancement to transit infrastructure. Partnering with Cool Green Shelters, an offshoot of the local business Living Canopies, the city is installing 10 stations with solar panels and living vegetation. These hubs address unmet community needs and vulnerabilities, fostering sustainable, accessible, and safe transit.

Meanwhile, across the Atlantic, Dutch cities like Utrecht and Wageningen are also piloting green roof for bus shelters. Utrecht’s incorporation of green roofs on over 300 bus shelters promotes biodiversity and improving air quality. In Wageningen, integrated green roofs with solar panels and LED screens, creating fully self-sufficient bus stations. These initiatives exemplify

the potential of green infrastructure in urban environments, to foster resilience and sustainability while enhancing public transit amenities.

Furthermore, the integration of datamonitoring capabilities into these shelters could represent a forwardthinking approach to community wellbeing. In cities like New Orleans, where public transit and environmental impact issues persist, green shelters could offer a refuge for residents. Equipped with technology to assess real-time health risks, temperature, air quality, and noise levels, these shelters could empower residents to make informed decisions about their surroundings. Integrated bus shelters act as catalysts for community well-being, contributing to a broader narrative of health equity and inclusive infrastructure.

THIS IS THE CONCEPT OF BUS SHELTERS WITH LIVING VEGETATION TO COMBAT URBAN POLLUTANTS

Innovative “living canopies” are transforming transit infrastructure with solar panels, greenery, and ambitions for health data monitoring symbolizing a commitment to safe public transit that promotes biodiversity and sustainability while enhancing public transit amenities.

PUBLIC TRANSPORTATION

Improved transit infrastructure can address challenges of urbanization, cost burden, and service availability. Eco-transit hubs can provide safer travel options and potential integration of data monitoring could contribute to promoting community well-being.

PUBLIC SPACES

Vegetated transit stops act as a continuation of green spaces, fulfilling the need for accessible public areas. In urban areas lacking nearby recreational spaces, these eco-transit hubs offer safe gathering spots and support healthy transit practices.

HEALTHCARE SERVICES

The Lower Ninth Ward, lacks a hospital within its boundaries, faces the challenge of residents having to travel 3-5 miles to reach the closest hospital. However, there are neighborhood clinics that provide essential healthcare services to residents.

NEW ORLEANS REDEVELOPMENT AUTHORITY PROGRAMS

SUPPORT CITIZEN-LED URBAN DEVELOPMENT

VACANCY TURNED TO GROWTH

The New Orleans Redevelopment Authority (NORA), was established by the State of Louisiana in 1968 as the Community Improvement Agency (CIA) to revitalize neglected areas in the city. Its role expanded after Hurricane Katrina with the Road Home Program, offering residents options to sell their lots to the city or receive repair funds.

This resulted in cataloging around 7,000 lots, with about 5,000 lots transferred by 2012. NORA works to prioritize lot disposal over becoming a perpetual land bank, using auctions and targeted initiatives. Beyond lot allocation, NORA actively promotes community resilience.

They collaborated with the City of New Orleans on the $141 million National Disaster Resilience Competition grant, focusing on stormwater management in Gentilly. Additionally, they operate programs like the Lot Next Door (LND) for

property owners to acquire adjacent lots and the Growing Green program, leasing land for community gardens and parks to encourage sustainable practices. The NORA Green program invests in properties for community impact, developing parks, urban forests, and stormwater lots.

However, challenges persist, particularly in maintaining NORAmanaged projects in disadvantaged areas of the city, ensuring their effectiveness, and extending their impact beyond individual parcels. Difficulties also arise in transferring land in areas where demand is low, even at subsidized rates.

There is a need to leverage NORA’s programs more effectively, allowing residents to effectively shape their neighborhoods. This approach would demonstrate a commitment to citizen-led efforts that reflect the most critical unmet community needs in a given neighborhood.

HEALTHY FOOD

NORA’s programs like the Growing Green initiative, leasing land for community gardens and parks, directly contribute to promoting access to healthy food options. By providing spaces for specific programming, NORA addresses food accessibility.

PUBLIC SPACE

NORA’s development of parks, landscaping, and urban forests through its Green program contributes directly to the creation and enhancement of public spaces. These initiatives aim to address the lack of accessible spaces for recreation and events.

AFFORDABLE HOUSING

NORA’s strategic disposals can impact affordable housing indirectly, especially in areas lacking investment. NORA addresses housing by facilitating programs like the Lot Next Door (LND) and awarding properties to affordable housing nonprofits.

UNMET COMMUNITY NEEDS

CASE STUDY

THE BEACON AT SOUTH MARKET

FIND PUBLIC SOLUTIONS IN PRIVATE PROGRAMMING

INTEGRATED COMMUNITY BENEFITS

South Market District (The District) emerges as a pivotal mixed-use development at the heart of New Orleans’ Central Business District (CBD), marking a significant milestone in the city’s urban evolution. This project addresses an unmet need for green and public spaces within the CBD, revitalizing the area by replacing surface parking lots with retail, dining, and a range of urban activities.

The Beacon, a project of the firm EskewDumezRipple, stands as a testament to contemporary living and intentional community integration. Inspired by historic French Quarter courtyards, the Beacon cleverly incorporates an elevated green space, connecting with Girod Street to offer residents and passersby a tranquil oasis amidst the bustling urban landscape. This unique public space invites people into this seemingly private space to pause, reflect, and unwind amidst the dynamic commercial corridor.

Moreover, The Beacon offers exclusive access to The Park, featuring retail establishments and five floors dedicated to car and bike parking, complete with electric car charging stations and bike-sharing programs, The Park represents a convergence of convenience and sustainability. This integration of residential and public spaces not only enhances the quality of life for residents but also fosters a sense of community and connectivity within the South Market District.

Collaborators such as Northside Electric, Spackman Mossop Michaels, Pontchartrain Mechanical, and Woodward Design+Build brought their expertise together to realize this project. With thoughtful design, The Beacon at South Market District sets a new standard in urban development. It introduces opportunities for integrating public and private spaces to cater to the diverse needs of the community and aims to reshape perceptions of urban landscapes as more accessible.

THIS IS A MIXED-USE PROJECT REVITALIZING NEW ORLEANS, LA WITH GREEN SPACE AND RETAIL

The South Market District in New Orleans’ CBD revitalizes the area by replacing parking lots with activity. The Beacon, a central feature, integrates contemporary living with community interaction, offering an elevated green space and exclusive access to local retail necessities.

PUBLIC SPACE

In the Central Business District, urban density limits accessible public spaces. The project addresses this by integrating an elevated green space, offering both residents and passersby a serene escape, promoting community interaction and well-being.

LOCAL BUSINESSES

In Central Business District, residents face challenges accessing essential services his project tackles the issue by integrating transportation amenities and on-site retail, including salons, pet daycare, gym, juice bar, ice cream shop, and culinary space.

The Beacon at South Market. New Orleans, LA. 2016. EskewDumezRipple. Adapted from a Photo by Timothy Hursley and Evan Joseph.

This is a story about an organization that guides youth toward positive pathways.

MAXIMIZING YOUTH POTENTIAL

Darrin McCall, the Chief Program Officer at Youth Empowerment Project (YEP). highlights their c omprehensive youth services.

“The mission is to engage young people through mentoring, enrichment, workforce development, and adult education programming to develop their skills and give them the resources to maximize their potential.”

There is a need for programming that provides safe spaces for youth. Direct interactions in homes and schools ensure an understanding of the unique needs, fostering a deeper connection. In response, YEP merges education, workforce development, job opportunities, and juvenile justice intervention. YEP provides supportive services to guide youth and create positive pathways. The commitment extends to workforce development through YEP Works programming,

DARRIN MCCALL

Chief Program Officer

Youth Empowerment Project

cultivating valuable skills and responsibility. Additionally, YEP offers adult basic education for those over 16 who left traditional schools, assisting participants in obtaining an equivalent high school diploma.

YEP and EskewDumezRipple, collaborated on the redesign of their aging facilities, acknowledging a need for flexibility and ongoing improvements. The emphasis was on functionality, with aspirations to combine and extend existing program spaces. Despite financial challenges, the project spurred ongoing ideas, influencing smaller projects for thoughtful space usage.

“There’s just so many young people that get left out of the conversation. And I genuinely feel like I work with a group of people that understand that and want to work to correct some of those inequities.”

BALANCING COMMUNITY NEEDS

Adjacent to YEP, a vacant lot in Central City was transformed by a local resident into Haley’s Harvest, a thriving community garden. This garden, which provided fresh, affordable produce and served as a gathering place for neighbors and addressed a critical need in a food desert.

However, the New Orleans Redevelopment Authority (NORA) eventually reclaimed the lot for a stormwater management project. While this action addressed an important environmental issue, it removed a valuable community

resource and replaced it with a space less accessible to local residents.

Meanwhile, YEP, located next to the lot, had an unmet need for recreational space for their youth programs. This space also could have served their needs if they had been considered during planning.

The situation highlights competing unmet needs and underscores the importance of inclusive planning.

Balancing these needs and diverse community perspectives helps ensure that resources are effectively utilized.

Previously Haley’s Harvest’s food garden, now a NORA Green lot for stormwater mangement.

“Our kids don’t use it. You have to separate these older individuals, who often appear to have mental challenges, from young kids. When less people are hanging out they’ll go play football They should be able to do that and feel safe. They should be able to do that anytime without staff policing the area and moving individuals away from them.”

- DARRIN Mc CALL

This is a story about rebuilding community trust through shelter and services.

BUILDING RELIABLE SHELTERS

Understanding the nuances of race, age, education, health, and economic disparities is crucial in identifying opportunities for local communities, particularly in addressing the multifaceted issue of homelessness, as emphasized by Lou Anne, founder of Louvis Services.

The city grappled with a significant increase in homelessness, undoing any strides made during the pandemic. According to New Orleans’ 2023 Point in Time Count, which tracks the number of people experiencing homelessness, 1,390 individuals were either on the streets or in shelters.

This surge was fueled by soaring rents and the expiration of pandemic resources. Despite a national decline

LOU ANNE WHITE Co-Founder Louvis Services

in homelessness between 2016 and 2022, local rates rose by 6%.

Black individuals constituted 65% of the unhoused population, with Latino homelessness increasing by 78% since before the pandemic.

While the annual street population remained stable, emergency shelter occupancy spiked by 26%, and family homelessness by 62% over the previous year. Moreover, older individuals, particularly those over 55 and 64, saw a 31% increase in homelessness within the last five years.

In this context, Lou Anne’s efforts align with broader societal challenges of discrimination prevalent in housing, employment, and education, all of which significantly impact homelessness rates.

Transform Communities Through Relationships

NAVIGATING LOANS TO LOTS

“Most of the work is around building partnerships and collaborations around developing housing for people who are homeless to find creative solutions to support people who are living on the streets and in shelters.”

Reflecting on historical racist loan practices, Lou Anne shared her own struggles in securing loans. Federal Reserve data indicates that while black-owned firms frequently seek bank financing, more than 50% are denied loans, double the rate of white-owned businesses. Even when approved, these firms often fail to receive full financing.

However, through perseverance, Louvis Services secured four lots for purchase via an application to the New Orleans Redevelopment Authority, an organization dedicated to stabilizing neighborhoods and encouraging investment.

Navigating issues of exploitation is central to Lou Anne’s work. In the broader context of the Lower Ninth Ward, skepticism arose from past experiences, particularly with Make It Right. Lou Anne’s endeavors extend beyond construction; they encompass rebuilding trust and addressing systemic challenges, such as political inertia, stunting progress in addressing homelessness and related issues.

“Sometimes there seems to be no political will. If you don’t vote, then politicians aren’t gonna come down there. They’re not gonna do anything. It’s like they say about children; it takes the village, well, it takes the village every time.”

Beyond organizations, communities themselves play a pivotal role in shaping political priorities and fostering meaningful change. It takes partnerships and action to bring about sustainable transformation.

Learn From Past Trials and Tribulations

FAME OF A NATURAL DISASTER

The aftermath of Hurricane Katrina in 2005 left scars on the landscape, both physical and emotional, prompting Brad Pitt to take the reins of a grand experiment in rebuilding. The Lower Ninth Ward became the canvas for architects like Frank Gehry, David Adjaye, Shigeru Ban, and local firms to sketch an isolated vision of resilience.

As visitors crossed over the canal, they couldn’t escape the palpable sense of unsustainability. The drained swamp, standing as a testament to man’s triumph over nature, juxtaposed against the concrete levee wall—a fragile boundary between the community and the persistent forces of hurricanes.

Brad Pitt’s Make It Right Foundation emerged as a beacon of hope, promising not just homes but an environmentally conscious revival. Solar panels adorned rooftops, and architects envisioned homes that stood as symbols of triumph over adversity. Yet, the success story started to unravel as the prototypes became a subject of debate, blurring the line between groundbreaking design and architectural gimmickry.

For the residents, the narrative evolved from immediate post-disaster recovery an architectural showcase. As this unfolded, the community stood vulnerable, reflecting the intricacies of rebuilding and community fragility.

“We went into it incredibly naive”

“Just thinking we can build homes, how hard is that?”

RECKONING OF FAILED PROMISES

The Foundation faced an inevitable reckoning as the stark realities emerged. Out of 150 promised homes and 109 units built, only 6 buildings remain structurally sound for habitation. Some were deemed a ‘safety hazard’ and now stand vacant due to mold, rot, flooding, and structural issues. The lack of consideration for the local climate was a major factor, with experimental materials failing and essential features missing, such as rain gutters, overhangs, waterproof painting, or covered beams—critical for enduring New Orleans’ subtropical climate and heavy rainfall. This led to significant water intrusion, subsequent termite infestation, and mold, causing health concerns for residents and financial anxieties about losing their homes. Consequently, many residents still endure living in renovated or original homes in a state of disrepair.

Beyond the decay of homes and structural issues, the narrative extended into legal battles, exposing negligence

through “defective” materials and construction errors. The glossy image of sustainability shattered, leaving the once hopeful community entangled in legal disputes. The Foundation settled a class-action lawsuit in 2022, compensating homeowners with $20.5 million, it aimed to mend wounds. However, the Lower Ninth Ward suffered more than physical losses—it lost trust in promises made. The collision between the promise of sustainable rebirth and the harsh reality of construction missteps shattered dreams.

The Make It Right Foundation, once a beacon of hope, now resonates through silent streets and vacant homes. The Lower Ninth Ward stands as a testament to the complexities of revitalization, where the pursuit of sustainability encountered the pitfalls of human oversight and error. EskewDumezRipple’s six prototype homes silently witness a narrative that began with hope, navigated turmoil, and left a community grappling.

UNMET COMMUNITY NEEDS

SPATIAL MAPPING

This map shows that historical disinvestment can decrease access.

Housing Burden

TARGET AREA VULNERABILITY

Food Desert

UNMET COMMUNITY NEEDS

96TH

89TH

89TH

92ND

Site

Housing Burden

UNMET COMMUNITY NEEDS

Housing Burden

UNMET COMMUNITY NEEDS

Site: Lower Ninth Ward Neighborhood, New Orleans

Location of the Global Green Community Project case study

UNMET COMMUNITY NEEDS SPATIAL MAPPING

IDENTIFY HISTORICAL DISPARITIES IMPACTS

To better address unmet community needs, it can be useful to research into historical disparities and assess the effectiveness of past interventions. Examining of networks of connected services can lead to insights into the specific challenges and opportunities.

For example, in the Lower Ninth Ward of New Orleans, the absence

of a local hospital and reliance on a singular small grocery forces residents to travel further distances, highlighting gaps in accessibility. Moreover, there are limited public transit options to access resources outside the neighborhood. This in turn, decreases livability and reduces area housing investments.

ASSESS HOW THESE FACTORS AFFECTS THE EXISTING

Identify key impact topics to evaluate the effects of existing services and interventions on area livability. This assessment provides insights into the broader implications of current initiatives and guide the development of future strategies to address community needs effectively.

HEALTHY FOOD

The Lower 9th Ward lacks accessible chain supermarkets, leaving locals dependent on a single local store for fresh food. Limited public transit options and inadequate infrastructure make traveling to larger stores outside the neighborhood challenging.

AFFORDABLE HOUSING

Lower Ninth Ward census tracts rank between the 89th and 96th percentiles for housing cost burden, indicating that many households earn less than 80% of the Area Median Family Income (AMFI) and allocate over 30% of their income to housing.

HEALTHCARE SERVICES

The Lower Ninth Ward, lacks a hospital within its boundaries, faces the challenge of residents having to travel 3-5 miles to reach the closest hospital. However, there are neighborhood clinics that provide essential healthcare services to residents.

GCCDS AND GLOBAL GREEN HOUSING REBUILD PROJECTS

REFLECT COMMUNITY VOICE THROUGH RESILIENT DESIGN

COMMUNITY CRAFTED RECOVERY

Post-Hurricane Katrina, East Biloxi, Mississippi faced severe devastation, with nearly half the homes obliterated. Recovery efforts, led by the Gulf Coast Community Design Studio (GCCDS) and the East Biloxi Coordination Center, featured distinct yet complementary strategies. Simultaneously, the East Biloxi Coordination Center acted as a centralized hub, efficiently coordinating relief efforts, underscoring the vital role of community involvement in rebuilding .

GCCDS home reflect the playful and nostalgic nature of residences seemingly crafted from imagination. This personalized approach of sketching with community members marked a departure from conventional design practices, fostering a unique sense of personal expression in the rebuilding process. It also highlighted the resilience and creativity of the community even in the face of adversity.

Global Green, located in New Orleans, took a sustainable and climateconscious approach to reconstruction, epitomized by the LEED Platinum model home within the Holy Cross Project. Completed in 2017, this project has opened it doors to over 35,000 visitors since 2008, offering insights into green building techniques tailored for the region’s climate.

These initiatives, diverging from previous models like “Make It Right”, showcase the critical nature of community engagement, long-term planning, and recovery. They also recognize vulnerability and importance of fostering trust and designing for reliability. Designers can leverage and adapt the strategies of both the GCCDS and Global Green projects to contribute to resilient communities. Both collaborative efforts not only rebuild physical structures but also rejuvenate the spirit and identity of affected areas, creating a sense of belonging and hope among residents.

THESE ARE COMMUNITY DRIVEN RESIDENCE HOUSING UNITS IN LOUISIANA AND MISSISSIPPI

In post-Katrina Biloxi, GCCDS and in the Lower Ninth Ward, Global Green led innovative and sustainable recovery efforts, emphasizing long-term planning and community trust. Their work revitalized community spirit, showcasing the power of resilient community engagement.

AFFORDABLE HOUSING

Both the GCCDS and Global Green initiatives focus on rebuilding homes and communities in a sustainable and personalized manner. They aim to provide affordable and reliable housing options that meet the needs of local residents.

QUALITY EDUCATION

Through working with community members in home design and showcasing green building techniques in the Holy Cross Project, the two projects educate on design, environmental sustainability skills, and climate-resilient practices.

Housing Rebuild Projects. Mississippi and Louisiana. Gulf Coast Community Design Studio and Global Green. Adapted from Photos.

L.B. LANDRY HIGH SCHOOL

INTEGRATE SERVICES FOR BROADER IMPACT

RENEWING CULTURAL LEGACIES

HOLISTIC COMMUNITY SUPPORT

L.B. Landry High School’s postHurricane Katrina reconstruction epitomized holistic community renewal. The 235,000 SF facility, rebuilt swiftly under the “quick start” program, symbolized resilience and a commitment to a brighter future.

Established in 1938, the school’s historical importance as an educational space for African-Americans increased the need to preserve its legacy while addressing contemporary needs.

As the project progressed, it became clear it could meet needs beyond education. Alongside the imperative of providing a safe and conducive learning environment, the design prioritized inclusivity and accessibility. The creation of distinct academic ‘houses’ fostered a sense of belonging and identity for each student across different grade levels, promoting a supportive educational ecosystem.

The impact extended past academics, recognizing the profound health disparities exacerbated by the storm’s aftermath. Community stakeholders prompted the integration of a fullservice health clinic within the school’s premises in response to the unmet healthcare needs in the neighborhood.

Operated by the Louisiana State University System, the clinic offers a range of primary care services, including pediatric, adult, and behavioral health care, bridging the gap in accessible healthcare services for neighborhood residents.

L.B. Landry High School embodies a vision of holistic neighborhood development. Through the integration of sustainable design and afterhours public access, the educational institution serves as a dynamic community hub where learning, health, and community engagement converge.

THIS IS A HIGH SCHOOL REBUILD IN NEW ORLEANS, LA THAT BECAME A CRITICAL COMMUNITY HUB

L.B. Landry High School epitomizes community renewal in New Orleans. Its legacy as an educational space for African-Americans underscores the importance of preservation. Beyond academics, the school’s integration of a full-service health clinic, bridging gaps in healthcare.

HEALTHCARE SERVICES

Accessing healthcare in New Orleans is difficult due to limited facilities, particularly in higher health risk areas. This educational project integrates a full-service health clinic, providing primary care services locally through a partnership with the LSU System.

CULTURAL RESOURCES

New Orleans lacks accessible cultural significant spaces. This project serves as a vital cultural hub, preserving heritage and diversity through enhanced programming, architectural preservation, and community engagement, fostering community pride.

QUALITY EDUCATION

Many in New Orleans face barriers to comprehensive education. This project’s modern facility promotes inclusivity and accessibility while its integrated health clinic enhances academic outcomes by supporting student well-being.

L.B. Landry High School. New Orleans, LA. 2010. EskewDumezRipple.

Adapted from a Photo by Timothy Hursley.

INTERSECTIONALITY

RECOGNIZE OVERLAPPING IDENTITIES

ASSESSMENT METRICS

RACE/ETHNICITY

GENDER IDENTITY

SEXUAL ORIENTATION

DISABILITY STATUS

SOCIOECONOMIC STATUS

AGE

RELIGION/SPIRITUALITY

NATIONALITY/CITIZENSHIP

98 Narrative: Building Futures Equally

100 Deep Dive: Lens into Overlapping Identities

102 Case Study: Together New Orleans

104 Spatial Mapping: Collaborative Solutions

“There is no such thing as a single-issue struggle because we do not live single-issue lives.”

- Audre Lorde

Intersectionality is the practice of viewing individuals through multiple lenses, acknowledging the various aspects of their identity such as race, gender, age, and abilities, which uniquely shape their experiences and opportunities. Originating from critical race theory and feminist studies, this concept, pioneered by legal scholar Kimberlé Crenshaw in the late 1980s, emphasizes the interconnected nature of social categorizations like race, gender, class, and sexuality. It recognizes that individuals hold multiple identities, and these intersect to influence their social positions and lived realities.

For instance, a Black woman may encounter discrimination not only based on her gender but also due to her race, while a disabled person may face barriers not just because of their disability but also due to societal attitudes towards disability. Intersectionality underscores the importance of considering these intersecting identities together to gain a comprehensive understanding of a person’s experiences.

In design, incorporating intersectionality entails recognizing the diverse needs, perspectives, and challenges of individuals with different identities and backgrounds. By designing with intersectionality, we create inclusive environments where everyone feels valued, respected, and able to participate fully, regardless of their identity or background. This inclusive approach fosters a sense of belonging and leads to better outcomes, as it ensures that solutions meet the diverse needs of the people they serve.

To better understand users, find Intersectionality within our diverse identities .

INTERSECTIONALITY ASSESSMENT METRIC

RACE/ETHNICITY

Cultural, social, and ancestral background that shapes identity, experiences of discrimination, access to opportunities, and cultural perspectives.

GENDER IDENTITY

A person’s internal sense of their gender, which may differ from the sex assigned at birth, influencing self-expression, social roles, and experiences of gender-based bias.

SEXUAL ORIENTATION

The emotional, romantic, or sexual attraction one feels toward others, impacting personal identity, relationships, social interactions, and experiences of discrimination.

DISABILITY STATUS

Physical, sensory, cognitive, or mental health conditions that influence daily functioning, access to services, and experiences of stigma or accessibility barriers.

SOCIOECONOMIC STATUS

A person’s economic and social position influenced by income, wealth, education, occupation, resource access, and experiences of economic privilege or disadvantage.

AGE

The number of years a person has lived, influencing life experiences, perspectives, roles in society, opportunities, and experiences of age-related discrimination or bias.

RELIGION/SPIRITUALITY

Beliefs, practices, values, and affiliations with traditions that shape identity, worldviews, social networks, and experiences of religious discrimination or inclusion.

NATIONALITY/CITIZENSHIP

Legal status, country or culture affiliations, experiences related to migration, language, cultural adaptation, and challenges related to xenophobia or cultural integration

These are stories about organizations challenging alternative career stereotypes.

BUILDING FUTURES EQUALLY

After Hurricane Katrina, New Orleans underwent a transformative educational shift, embracing an all-charter model by 2019, marking it as the first major U.S. city without traditional public schools. Charter schools, operated by nonprofit organizations, introduced a unique framework, granting autonomy in curriculum, staffing, and calendars while adhering to rigorous academic and financial standards.

Despite improving student outcomes, concerns arose over the non profit oversight and prompted the need for accountability measures. Other unaffiliated non profits have also sought to address ingrained disparities through alternative educational models.

AARON FRUMIN

Founder

Uncommon Construction

UnCommon Construction, under Aaron Frumin’s leadership, redefines youth empowerment through hands-on construction projects. Breaking stereotypes, Frumin emphasizes equality and challenges preconceptions about careers starting in construction industries.

“There’s a stigma that jobs and careers that start on or around a construction site are dirty and dumb, or they’re for boys only, or they’re a consolation prize for the non-college-bound. In actuality, our high school apprentices are 50-50 workforce to college, and we’re agnostic. We believe that both should be presented as equally prestigious.”

OFFERING ALTERNATIVE EDUCATION

DR.

CALVIN MACKIE Founder STEM NOLA RICHARD READ Director of Development NOCCA Foundation

Dr. Calvin Mackie’s STEM NOLA engages communities in STEM fields, challenging the notion that STEM is exclusive. The organization bridges disparities by organizing diverse STEM activities, fostering inclusivity, and making STEM accessible to all.

“There’s a belief gap. There’s a belief in certain sectors and pockets of this community that STEM is only for some people.”

Situated on Homer Plessy Way, the NOCCA Foundation is pivotal in advancing arts education at the New Orleans Center for Creative Arts (NOCCA). This location, named after Homer Plessy, signifies a commitment

to inclusivity and challenging historical disparities, echoing the transformative spirit of Plessy’s fight for equality.

Richard Read leads the Foundation’s efforts to ensure that students attend NOCCA tuition-free, eliminating barriers such as transportation. He has witnessed the impact of providing students with a safe space where they can freely explore artistic expression.

“We have called this place before the Unicorn Ranch. It’s a place where all the kids, many of whom may feel like oddballs at their normal school... This is where they feel like themselves.”

“Going down the interstate, we wanted them to look over there and see, and say, ‘somebody’s putting something of value in my community.’ ”

- CHARLOTTE STEELE

INTERSECTIONALITY

DEEP DIVE

LENS INTO OVERLAPPING

IDENTITIES

Exploring intersectionality, education, empowerment, and the dynamics of citizen voice opens up an understanding of how power and privilege operate in society.

Intersectionality, a concept introduced by Kimberlé Crenshaw, invites us to recognize that our identities are multifaceted and interconnected. It’s like peeling back layers of an onion to reveal how factors like race, gender, class, and ability intersect to shape our experiences and opportunities. Just as a prism refracts light into a spectrum of colors, intersectionality reveals the diverse dimensions of identity and how they intersect to influence our lives.

Education is a fundamental tool for empowerment, but its benefits are often not equally distributed. For marginalized communities, stereotypes and trust issues can act as barriers, hindering access to quality education and limiting opportunities for advancement. Imagine climbing a ladder with rungs missing—it’s a daunting task that requires navigating unforeseeable obstacles.

Understanding intersectionality goes beyond recognizing the struggles of others; it requires introspection and

acknowledgment of our own privileges and biases. When we’ve grown accustomed to certain advantages, calls for equality can feel like a threat to our status quo. It’s akin to suddenly being asked to share a slice of a pie that we’ve always had to ourselves. However, embracing an intersectional perspective allows us to appreciate the diverse challenges people face and fosters empathy and solidarity.

The power of citizen voice is undeniable, yet it often encounters resistance within systems marked by inequality. Marginalized voices are often silenced or dismissed, perpetuating cycles of exclusion and disenfranchisement. However, by amplifying these voices and building upon existing community networks, we can mobilize collective action and drive meaningful change. It’s about recognizing the inherent strength within communities and harnessing it to challenge oppressive structures.

This is where design emerges as a potent tool for social transformation. Inclusive design principles, which prioritize diversity and accessibility, have the potential to dismantle stereotypes and create spaces where everyone feels valued and represented.

INTERSECTIONALITY

CASE STUDY

TNO COMMUNITY LIGHTHOUSES

LEVERAGE EXISTING NETWORKS FOR RESILIENCE

STARTING A RESILIENCE REVOLUTION DESIGNING A CITY-WIDE NETWORK

Intersectionality traditionally addresses overlapping barriers, but Together New Orleans (TNO) views overlapping disadvantaged identities of religion, race, income, disability, and age as collective strengths. This transforms challenges into opportunities, fostering resilience beyond individual struggles.

In August 2021, post-Hurricane Ida, TNO transformed unions, churches, mosques, synagogues, and nonprofits into resilience hubs with solar panels and batteries. These Community Lighthouses are strategically located solar-powered structures, echoing successful models like Household of Faith, which efficiently contributed excess energy to the city grid.

The initiative aims to establish dozens of lighthouses within a 15-minute walk for all 375,000 residents, promising 20-30% lower electricity bills for local institutions. Securing a $259 million federal grant underscores TNO’s commitment to grid resilience. As the network expands, engagement grows through meetings, voting, and training sessions, empowering residents in critical decision-making processes.

Inspired by proven concepts from projects like EskewDumezRipple’s St. Peter’s Residential, and supported by the Inflation Reduction Act incentivizing sustainable infrastructure, TNO’s lighthouses serve as models for community-led solutions. They provide safe spaces for discussing and addressing community issues through spatial understanding, emphasizing collective action beyond immediate disaster response.

The initiative exemplifies how communities can leverage shared struggles to build resilience and create solutions. By bridging diverse institutions and local resources, TNO fosters a proactive approach to community development, where residents play a pivotal role.

With community engagement at its core, TNO ensures that the lighthouses not only serve practical purposes like disaster preparedness but also catalyze economic and environmental benefits. The initiative’s success lies in its ability to harness collective identity struggles into a cohesive force to tackle complex urban challenges.

REPAIR OR REPLACE WINDOWS

INSTALL SOLAR PANELS INSULATE

FORTIFIED ROOF

MONITOR TEMPERATURE

THIS IS A PROJECT IN NEW ORLEANS, LA ABOUT ORGANIZING AROUND EXISTING SYSTEMS

In New Orleans, Together New Orleans’ Community Lighthouses, located in trusted religious institutions, leverage overlapping disadvantaged identities as strengths to provide affordable electricity and serve as community hubs, promoting further dialogue and collective action.

SOCIOECONOMIC STATUS

INSTALL BATTERIES

Economic disparities and high energy costs impact many New Orleans residents, making affordable electricity crucial. The project aims to reduce electricity bills for hubs by 20-30%, while providing essential energy-based services to the public.

RELIGION/SPIRITUALITY

Religious institutions in New Orleans serve as vital community connectors, offering support and guidance. The project places solar-powered lighthouses in these institutions, enhancing community support and disaster preparedness.

DISABILITY STATUS

Individuals with disabilities face accessibility barriers and are disproportionately affected during disasters. The project ensures accessibility through inclusive design and meets their needs via community meetings and disaster trainings.

Community Lighthouse Project. Together New Orleans. Adapted from an Existing TNO Diagram.

SPATIAL MAPPING

This map shows that shared spaces and overlapping issues have the potential for collaborative solutions.

High Energy Burden

ENERGY COSTS/HOUSEHOLD INCOME

Areas where people spend 6% or more of their income on energy = energy poverty.

HIGH RISK

Site: New Orleans, LA

Various locations of current and proposed sites from the Together New Orleans Community Lighthouses Case Study

700 Congregations

ESTIMATED IN NEW ORLEANS

Home to a diverse array of denominations and faiths, reflecting the region rich culture.

16 Lighthouses

PROPOSED TNO COMMUNITY LIGHTHOUSE

SOCIOECONOMIC STATUS

In 2021, over 149,000 households in Louisiana spent over 20% of their income on home energy costs. This “energy burden” ranked Louisiana as one of the worst energy burdens in the U.S. due to the intersection of high energy bills and high poverty.

RELIGION/SPIRITUALITY

Religion and spirituality are integral to New Orleans’ cultural identity, influencing social dynamics and community support across diverse networks. Catholicism, Protestantism, and Voodoo highlight the city’s rich intersectional heritage.

DISABILITY STATUS

New Orleans has a notable population with disabilities, and this is heightened by age, as older adults are more likely to be affected. This intersectionality impacts access to resources and quality of life, intersecting with race and socio-economic factors.

TARGET AREA VULNERABILITIES

CONSIDER AREA VULNERABILITY INDEXES

ASSESSMENT METRICS

POVERTY

UNEMPLOYMENT

EDUCATION LEVEL

DIGITAL ACCESS

PUBLIC HEALTH

HEALTH INSURANCE

CRIME RATES

GOVERNANCE STABILITY

112 Narrative: Residences, Relations, Realities

114 Narrative: Systemic Challenges Pipeline

116 Deep Dive: Broken Windows Theory

120 Spatial Mapping: Cyclical Issues

122 Case Study: PlayBuild NOLA

“Never doubt that a small group of thoughtful, committed citizens can change the world; indeed, it’s the only thing that ever has.”

- Margaret Mead

Target Area Vulnerabilities refer to specific challenges or weaknesses that a community encounters, often influenced by various factors such as economic conditions, demographics, and environmental factors. These vulnerabilities can manifest in different facets of community life, affecting aspects like health, safety, education, employment, and overall well-being. For example, a neighborhood with high unemployment rates may experience increased poverty levels and limited access to economic opportunities, leading to social unrest and higher crime rates.

Recognizing and addressing these vulnerabilities is crucial for the community’s development and resilience. By understanding the unique challenges faced by different groups within the community, policymakers and stakeholders can design targeted interventions and allocate resources effectively. This may involve implementing initiatives to promote job training and skill development, fostering entrepreneurship, or creating employment opportunities tailored to the community’s needs.

Moreover, addressing target area vulnerabilities is essential for reducing disparities and promoting social equity. Vulnerable populations, such as low-income families, racial minorities, and individuals with disabilities, are often disproportionately affected by these challenges. By addressing the root causes of vulnerability and implementing inclusive policies and programs, communities can work towards achieving greater equity and social justice.

To support communities, identify, assess, and support Target Area Vulnerabilities .

TARGET AREA VULNERABILITIES

ASSESSMENT METRIC

POVERTY

Persistent lack of income and resources necessary for a decent standard of living, leading to inadequate housing, food insecurity, and limited access to essential services.

UNEMPLOYMENT

Insufficient job opportunities or low employment rates in the area, resulting in financial instability, reduced household incomes, and challenges in meeting basic needs.

EDUCATION LEVEL

Overall attainment and quality of education in the area, including graduation rates, literacy levels, access to educational resources, and opportunities for skill development.

DIGITAL ACCESS

Availability and affordability of digital technologies like internet access, computers, and smartphones, impacting access to online information, and economic opportunities.

PUBLIC HEALTH

Overall health status through key metric like disease prevalence, access to healthcare services, environmental conditions, socioeconomic determinants, and life expectancy,

HEALTH INSURANCE

Rates of health insurance coverage among residents, affecting their ability access necessary medical care, medications, and treatments without financial hardship.

CRIME RATES

Incidence and prevalence of criminal activities such as property crimes, violent crimes, and drug-related offenses, influencing community safety, trust, and quality of life.

GOVERNANCE STABILITY

The effectiveness, transparency, and accountability of local governance structures, including levels of corruption, rule of law, and civic engagement opportunities.

Impact Beyond Site Boundaries

Expand the Research Radius

SITE

Look at External Pressures

SITE

SITE

Create Broader Impact

“Who’s going to save our children? Who’s going to save our community? How can we say we want the ones better if we don’t stay and make it better?”

- CHABRE JONES, CLINICAL SOCIAL WORKER, YOUTH EMPOWERMENT PROJECT

NARRATIVE

This is a story about the consequences of development and its impact on violence.

RESIDENCES, RELATIONS, REALITIES

Chabre Jones, a clinical social worker at Youth Empowerment Project (YEP) and a New Orleans native, speaks to the changes in community dynamics. Reflecting on the vital role of housing, Chabre underscores their significance beyond residences, acting as conduits for family legacy.

Often, redevelopment intended for revitalization, has led to unintended consequences. Ongoing gentrification has displaced longtime area residents and altered historical territorial dynamics, bringing different wards into close proximity and consequentially heightening internal tensions.

“Now someone from the third ward is living next to somebody from the seventh ward, and they historically are beefing. You have a lot of violence that comes from that. All of this has contributed even more to housing instability, to the increase of individuals living under the bridge. All of it plays a role.”

CHABRE JONES

Clinical Social Worker

Youth Empowerment Project

Within these community dynamics, Chabre shares her personal connection to Claiborne Avenue.

“It’s always been a part of my upbringing. When I was a little girl, we drove up Claiborne on a regular basis. It never was a place where we hung out at, we were encouraged to be at. It almost had some sort of seediness, or darkness to it.”

The Corridor serves as a community hub for events and expression, but the above I-10 Expressway brings social, economic, and environmental issues. Despite efforts like flower beds, concerns arise about sustainability given factors like homeless populations, second line gatherings, and neglected parks.

“Parks lately have been places of violence. I don’t see them being utilized the way they should be. I think people are just afraid.”

HEALING COMMUNITY TRAUMAS

It is becoming increasingly critical to recognize and address enduring effects of violence and community traumas, Chabre speaks to the need for breaking the cycle.

“I can’t tell you how many people I’ve lost to gun violence in this position and the trauma that causes because it affects all of us. It’s something that grows and connects us all in a very tragic way. The generation before has not been treated for their traumas and things that they need to overcome. It’s just kind of like trickling down. Where can we intervene to stop this from happening to future generations?”

Chabre concludes with the changing socio-economic landscape, addressing the influx of out-ofstate investors, rising housing costs, and the looming threat to the city’s unique cultural identity.

“We have to see ourselves in these spaces too. And somebody has to pass on those stories, pass on those experiences, pass on that knowledge. If we all leave, nothing will be left. So I made a personal choice to be in here and be in this space. And I wanted our kids to see people that look like them. People who were from where they were from and could speak to what they’ve been through.”

“They’re afraid to be outside. Darkness scares people and the city is not well lit anymore. If you drive along the interstate on top of Claiborne, street lights are out. How do you expect people to come out and feel comfortable in their community when the infrastructure is not supporting basic things like light? “

- CHABRE JONES

This story is about the link between societal perceptions and the incarceration pipeline.

SYSTEMIC CHALLENGES PIPELINE

Crimes Against Humanity, The Mass Incarceration of Children in the U.S. 2023. Report on Incarceration of Juveniles. You Are Not Forgotten.

In Louisiana’s dynamic political landscape, recent shifts in legislative priorities signal a departure from previous bipartisan reforms. Governor Jeff Landry’s “tough-on-crime” agenda, backed by Republican supermajorities, rolls back measures enacted under former Governor John Bel Edwards, significantly impacting the criminal justice landscape.

This affects organizations like the Louisiana Center for Children’s Rights (LCCR) and Innocence Project New Orleans (IPNO), both grappling with systemic issues in the state’s legal systems, worsened by systemic racism and societal challenges.

PRISON POP. THAT COMMITTED CRIMES BEFORE AGE 18

7.2% LOUISIANA

KRISTEN ROME

Executive Director

Louisiana Center for Children's Rights

LCCR, dedicated to the well-being of all Louisiana children, employs a multifaceted approach. Kristen Rome, the Executive Director, outlines LCCR’s objectives to address root causes like trauma and learning disabilities, challenging black children stereotypes and striving for genuine rehabilitation.

Sean Williams, sentenced to life at 18, became a testimony of the overlooked challenges faced by black children. With LCCR’s help, Williams was resentenced and released, and now serves as LCCR’s reentry specialist. His journey shed light on adolescent brain development, an aspect often overlooked in legal systems.

PERCENTAGE PRISON POP. OF BLACK YOUTH THAT COMMITTED CRIMES

ADDRESSING INEQUITIES HEAD-ON

Jee Park, Executive Director of IPNO, echoes this pursuit of justice passionately. IPNO represents those wrongfully convicted or subjected to excessive sentences in Louisiana. Park emphasizes the importance of telling clients’ stories authentically, recognizing them not just as cases but as individuals deeply affected by the complexities of the criminal legal system. Challenges posed by Louisiana’s sentencing laws raise fundamental questions about the premise that excessive punishment ensures public safety, a notion recently reinforced by state legislation.

In Louisiana’s neighborhoods, black children, often lacking proper access to resources, opportunities, and safe spaces, face heightened

JEE PARK

Executive Director

Innocence Project New Orleans

risks. Limited quality education and workforce opportunities, coupled with compounded health risks, can create an environment conducive to criminal behavior. These children, in a system neglecting their basic needs, additionally find themselves disproportionately subjected to stringent prosecution.

Within this web of politics, systemic failures, and societal neglect, LCCR and IPNO seek to provide a lifeline for those wrongfully convicted or ensnared by a legal system that too often perpetuates rather than addresses the root causes of crime. By advocating for reforms and amplifying voices, they strive to create a more equitable future for marginalized communities.

“A young person’s arrest often indicates larger issues. We, as a country, outlawed executing children in 2005. At the time, we were only one of United Nations member countries that still did that.”

- JEE PARK

TARGET AREA VULNERABILITIES

DEEP DIVE

BROKEN WINDOWS THEORY

The Broken Windows Theory, developed by James Q. Wilson and George L. Kelling in the 1980s, explores the link between disorder and crime in urban areas. It suggests that visible signs of neglect, like broken windows or graffiti, create an environment conducive to criminal behavior. This theory has two main aspects: minor signs of disorder set the stage for criminal activity, and addressing signs can prevent more serious crimes.

The theory gained attention advocating to target minor offenses, assuming it would bring order and deter severe criminal activities. While praised for its simplicity, it faced criticism for impacting marginalized communities disproportionately and oversimplifying complex issues.

Advocates of the theory endorse its pragmatic approach to maintaining public order and preventing crime. They vouch for simply fixing the

broken window. By asserting that addressing visible signs of disorder proactively creates safer communities.

Critics argue the theory completely oversimplifies crime factors, leading to the criminalization of poverty and disproportionately impacting marginalized communities. They highlight its neglect of broader systemic issues, like socio-economic disparities and historical injustices, shaping a community’s conditions.

Understanding the implications of this theory requires navigating its application nuances and acknowledging ongoing debates about its effectiveness. It serves as a reminder that while visible signs of disorder may contribute to a challenging environment, addressing the root causes of crime necessitates a comprehensive and inclusive approach tailored to each community’s unique context.

ADDRESS NEGLECT IN OUR CITIES

The Broken Windows Theory remains relevant in states like Louisiana, where despite efforts to strengthen law enforcement, systemic neglect and historical injustice are primary contributors to disorder, leading to significant socio-economic decay. This underscores the theory’s premise that disorder impacts community dynamics in various ways, exacerbating broader societal issues.

The state’s ongoing challenges in crime data collection further underscore the theory’s emphasis on addressing visible signs of disorder and the urgent need for enhanced data accuracy. This aligns with the theory’s

argument that neglect and disorder serve as catalysts for larger systemic problems. The theory’s relevance in understanding community dynamics highlights the critical need for holistic strategies that prioritize systemic change and community well-being. These strategies should move beyond enforcement-centric approaches to effectively disrupt crime pipelines.

Recognizing historical disparities and addressing the root causes of neglect and disorder are crucial in guiding both immediate interventions and sustainable, long-term systemic changes aimed at strengthening communities.

McKee, Adam J. “Broken Windows Theory.” Encyclopedia Britannica

The Domino Effect

In at-risk communities, fragile stability means challenges can trigger a domino effect, worsening underlying issues.

ACCESSTO RESOURCES

TARGET AREA VULNERABILITIES

This map shows how vulnerable communities often experience a cycle, where one issue influences another.

Crime Rate

CRIME RATE HOT SPOTS

Neighborhoods with historically high crime rates and in some areas, police response times.

HIGH RISK

Unemployment

RATE OF UNEMPLOYMENT

SPATIAL MAPPING >97TH >90

Public Health

COMBINED HEALTH PRIORITIES

Poverty

HIGH RISK

TARGET AREA VULNERABILITIES

SPATIAL MAPPING

ASSESS OVERALL VULNERABILITY PATTERNS

Assessing vulnerability patterns requires examining various factors, with New Orleans serving as a useful example. In this example, poverty intertwines with unemployment rates, creating a cycle that perpetuates economic instability and amplifies vulnerability. This economic strain often manifests in adverse health

outcomes, including higher incidences of chronic diseases such as asthma, kidney disease, cardiovascular issues, diabetes, and hypertension, further exacerbating vulnerability. Moreover, the correlation between economic hardship and crime rates becomes apparent, with impoverished areas experiencing higher levels of crime.

ASSESS HOW THESE FACTORS INCREASES VULNERABILITY

Following the assessment, delve into each category to determine specific drivers of vulnerability. This involves analyzing socio-economic factors, environmental impact, institutional capacities, and community dynamics that contribute to heightened susceptibility to risks and hazards.

CRIME RATES

New Orleans, grapples with persistent crime issues, notably in historically vulnerable neighborhoods. Despite community efforts and revitalization attempts, these areas continue to face challenges with crime, particularly violent offenses and robberies.

POVERTY

In New Orleans, a significant percentage of the population residing in households earning less than or equal to twice the federal poverty level. This economic strain is compounded by lower employment rates and educational attainment levels.

PUBLIC HEALTH

In New Orleans, there is a prevalence of health vulnerabilities such as asthma, kidney and cardiovascular disease, diabetes, hypertension, stroke, mental health, and physical inactivity. Each risk classified as high compared to U.S. city averages.

TARGET AREA VULNERABILITIES

CASE STUDY

PLAYBUILD AND TINY WPA

“Everybody wants to build, everyone has something they want to fix or make better.”

PUBLIC SPACES FOR LEARNING RESILIENCE THROUGH PLAY

PlayBuild NOLA, a dynamic force in New Orleans, breathes life into forgotten spaces, transforming them into vibrant havens for youth. Their mission extends beyond play; it’s a quest to nurture creativity, curiosity, and a love for learning in underserved youth. By converting vacant lots into interactive classrooms and community hubs, PlayBuild injects hope into neighborhoods marred by systemic neglect. These spaces not only provide places to play but also serve as catalysts for educational and social growth, addressing critical voids in community infrastructure.

Tiny WPA in Philadelphia embodies a similar ethos through communitydriven design interventions. Empowering youth via the Building

Hero Project, they reimagine and reshape their surroundings, making tangible impacts on the urban fabric. Their pandemic response transcended mere desk-building; it focused on creating dedicated spaces for learning within homes, directly addressing the overlooked challenges faced by marginalized communities.

Play isn’t just a childhood indulgence— it’s a powerful tool against systemic adversities. Initiatives like PlayBuild NOLA and Tiny WPA speak a language of resilience, offering alternatives to the pipelines of violence and incarceration that often ensnare disadvantaged youth. By injecting creativity into urban landscapes, they sow the seeds for a more equitable, inclusive, and hopeful future.

THESE ARE ORGANIZATIONS THAT USE PLAY TO ENHANCE YOUTH EDUCATION AND DEVELOPMENT

PlayBuild NOLA in New Orleans revitalizes spaces for youth, fostering creativity and addressing neglect effectively. Tiny WPA in Philadelphia empowers youth through design interventions, countering challenges in marginalized communities with innovation and resilience.

POVERTY

In cities like New Orleans and Philadelphia, poverty leaves communities without essential resources and growth opportunities. Both organizations address this by offering underserved youth creative and educational spaces to foster development.

EDUCATION LEVEL

Cities like New Orleans and Philadelphia struggle with low graduation rates and access to quality education. Both organizations create environments that nurture a love for learning, providing educational programs and workshops that empower youth.

PUBLIC HEALTH

Public health in cities is affected by socioeconomic disparities and a lack of safe, supportive environments. Initiatives like these offer safe spaces while enhancing well-being and addressing public health concerns by keeping youth engaged.

CRIME RATES

High crime rates in cities like New Orleans and Philadelphia are linked to systemic neglect and a lack of positive outlets for youth. Safe, engaging spaces that offer alternatives to violence, fostering community cohesion through constructive projects.

Community Engagement Photos. PlayBuild and Tiny WPA. Adapted from Photos by PlayBuild and Tiny WPA.

YES TO ENGAGEMENT

FIND ENGAGEMENT OPPORTUNITIES

ASSESSMENT METRICS

AEIOU/ELITO METHOD

SHADOWING

KJ METHOD

COMMUNITY AMBASSADORS

PROGRAM SYNERGIES

PERSONAS

PUBLIC MEETING

OPEN HOUSE

130 Deep Dive: Beneath the Highway

132 Narrative: Restoring Community Vision

134 Deep Dive: Systemic Urban Injustice

136 Spatial Mapping: Leveraging Existing Organizations

138 Case Study: Expanding Cultural Practices

140 Case Study: 11th Street Bridge Connector

142 Case Study: The Thaden School

“Coming together is a beginning, staying together is progress, and working together is success.”

- Henry Ford

“Yes to Engagement” embodies the collaborative efforts of community members in addressing shared concerns, fostering meaningful dialogue, and co-creating solutions. This approach is fundamental for cultivating inclusivity, transparency, and trust within communities, thereby enhancing the effectiveness and longevity of projects and initiatives. To fully harness the potential of community engagement, it is important to identify all relevant stakeholders, employ tailored engagement methods suited to each stage of the project lifecycle, and sustain efforts over time.

By involving community members from the outset, projects can benefit from the diverse perspectives, expertise, and lived experiences of those directly impacted. This fosters a sense of ownership and empowerment as well as allows stakeholders to feel valued, heard, and included in the decision-making process.

To maximize the impact of community engagement efforts, it is essential to implement engagement methods that are unique in characteristics and preferences of diverse stakeholders. This may involve utilizing a combination of approaches, such as public meetings, focus groups, online forums, or participatory workshops, to accommodate varying levels of accessibility, communication preferences, and cultural considerations.

Engagement Research Fellowship. 2014. EskewDumezRipple. Context Drawn from Previous Fellowship.

AEIOU/ELITO METHOD

Use the AEIOU method to organize observations based on activities, environments, interactions, objects, and users, and the ELITO Method to turn findings into concepts.

SHADOWING

Involves tracking stakeholder behavior in real-time situations to gain insights into their daily experiences and behaviors, helping test assumptions and refine information.

KJ METHOD

Works towards group consensus by engaging all participants to record thoughts, concerns, questions, or appreciations on an issue, allowing patterns to emerge.

COMMUNITY AMBASSADORS

Trained community members deliver project information, collect additional information from stakeholders, and maintain continuity before and after project completion.

PROGRAM SYNERGIES

Discover and coordinate with related ongoing projects or programs to align efforts, support project outcomes, build allies, and benefit larger community goals.

PERSONAS

Consolidates behavior patterns into representative profiles to humanize the design focus, test scenarios, and aid design communication within specific contexts.

PUBLIC MEETING

Large public comment meetings for collecting or distributing information among stakeholders, especially useful for projects involving large groups.

OPEN HOUSE

Showcases project partners, shares information, and celebrates milestones, fostering communication and building trust among stakeholders.

LET’S SET UP A QUICK ENGAGEMENT PLAN.

PROJECT TYPE

STAKEHOLDERS

THE BOUNDARY OBJECT THEORY

The Boundary Object Theory is a framework used to facilitate collaboration and communication among diverse stakeholders by employing adaptable tools or artifacts that allow for shared understanding and alignment around common goals, despite differing perspectives, interests, and priorities.

How does our work benefit from this goal?

Common Understanding of the Boundary Object in Both Communities

How does the city/client(s) benefit from this goal?

DESIGNERS

Unique Meaning of the Boundary Object in Community B

Unique Meaning of the Boundary Object in Community B

How does the community benefit from this goal?

Unique Meaning of the Boundary Object in Community B

This is a story about urban development patterns that have historically overlooked community needs.

BENEATH THE HIGHWAY

AMY STELLY Founder

Claiborne Avenue Alliance

Amy Stelly stood in the shadow of the highway, her voice barely rising above the incessant drone of passing cars. Someone tried to get her attention over the noise.

“That’s my point—you can’t hear. This is why it’s undesirable to build anything under a highway. It’s not rush hour; it’s only two o’clock or a little bit after two. You can imagine during rush hour what this is like.”

Amy Stelly, urban planner, activist, and founder of the Claiborne Avenue Alliance, is a staunch advocate for the removal of the I-10 highway.

During the 1960s, the Federal-Aid Highway Act led to the construction of numerous highways across the United States, often slicing through and displacing established communities. Predominantly Black neighborhoods, like Treme in New Orleans, were disproportionately targeted, resulting in significant social and economic disruptions.

RESEARCH & REPEATED FINDINGS

Stelly had collaborated with students from LSU to measure the noise level, particulate matter, and heat in the areas directly proximate to the highway, including residential neighborhoods and parks. Their findings revealed alarming levels of air and noise pollution exacerbated by the highway, which can lead to respiratory issues, cardiovascular problems, and other health risks for nearby residents.

As a result, Stelly questions the city’s continued insistence on building food and recreational facilities in such spaces, bringing people into potential danger.

“It is not wise to continue to plan to build recreational facilities under a highway, which is what the city is insisting on doing. I don’t understand it; many people don’t understand it.”

Stelly emphasizes that this is not an isolated issue and points out various landmarks, each with its own story.

“There’s a lot of history here that should be respected, but unfortunately, when the bottom line is profit and not people, things change.”

- AMY STELLY

VOICES AGAINST NEGLECT

“In New Orleans, we build buildings that force other viable buildings to become obsolete. It is a pattern.”

Projects such as the Louis Armstrong New Orleans International Airport, which led to the neglect of other local transportation hubs, and the juxtaposition of Armstrong Park with the now underused municipal auditorium when the new performing arts center was constructed instead of fixing the municipal building for a better use, highlight these issues.

Stelly is determined not to see her city set up for failure by poor planning decisions. She’s witnessed the city repeatedly setting itself up with uninformed, rushed, or inadequately funded buildings that most could anticipate will become eyesores in New Orleans.

This pattern of neglect and mismanagement is a familiar story in many American cities, where urban renewal projects often prioritize new development over the preservation and improvement of existing communities, often due to miscommunication or lack of representation of the local voice.

“The city is divided right now, but the city is divided because we as a population don’t have the data we need to have a fruitful discussion.”

Amy’s passion for preserving the city’s heritage was evident. She pointed out beautifully restored buildings, historic houses, and the Esplanade Ridge, an area she called home. She also recounted stories of the past, from the formation of the Treme neighborhood on the former Morand Plantation to the more recent impacts of gentrification and city planning, but against all odds, the preservation of embedded traditions like the weekly drum circle in Congo Square that kept the spirit of the community alive.

Amy’s perspective was shared through sensory details as she wanted us to see, hear, and understand the stakes involved in preserving the character and livability of New Orleans.

“There are a couple of patterns, and you’ll see this again. We need to respect that and then bring the building back so that people can actually enjoy it the way it was meant to be enjoyed.”

This is a story about restoring cultural identity amid community dissolution.

RESTORING COMMUNITY VISION

In New Orleans, where history and heritage intertwine with the scars of the past, Bryan Lee, principal at Colloqate Design, dedicates his architectural practice to design justice.

Bryan’s journey began with the African-American Museum and the Bell School, marking his involvement in the Treme and Claiborne Avenue area. His pivotal role unfolded during his tenure as the Civic Design Director for the City of New Orleans, where, in 2015 and 2017, he played a crucial part in shaping the vision for the Claiborne Ave. I-10 corridor where a 60-year-old highway project remained a looming obstacle. The story traces back to when activists envisioned a vibrant, socio-culturally rich corridor.

“In 1965 to 70, there was a group of organizers and activists who put together a package called the Claiborne Avenue Design Team. It was a book that looked

BRYAN LEE JR. Founder Colloquate Design

at sociocultural parameters, the geocultural parameters of place, the impact of the highway coming in the early ‘60s on the economic, educational, wealth outcomes of people within those neighborhoods and the displacement that happened as a byproduct of that.”

The vision, released in 1972, aimed to create spaces for learning, build safe relationships, and increase economic growth. However, the vision was shelved for 40 years until after Hurricane Katrina reignited the conversation, now under entirely different circumstances.

“In 1972, there were four or five times the number of people in the Treme. There were significantly more black and brown people, and a significant amount of homes were owned by black people in that neighborhood, which is the complete opposite now.”

“It is a vision that exists as a byproduct of a ghostly past. A past that no longer exists. I don’t think it’s a rethread. I think it is an homage. We’re not trying to restore or go back to. We’re trying to reincarnate.

ENSURING CULTURAL CONTINUITY

Bryan emphasizes the challenge of bringing people back, ensuring the Claiborne Innovation District (CID) isn’t merely a monument but a living testament to the city’s culture.

“It’s 4,000 people in the Treme versus 20,000 that was there in the 70s. It’s hard to fathom how you navigate that and the makeup of the people now of that 4,000 have to be able to afford to live in the Treme.

The dwindling community size and the struggle for affordable housing raises the question of how to bring people back and ensure that the CID isn’t just a monument but a reflection of the city’s culture. There are memories woven in, from Fats Domino’s gambling on the block to Congo Square’s cultural gatherings and the atmosphere under the bridge during Mardi Gras and St. Joseph’s Night.

“This city brings in 14% of all the revenues that come in by way of culture bearers or cultural actors. They produce nearly 70% of the overall revenue coming into the city.”

Colloqate Design is collaborating on a demonstration area to phase in design ideas of the full 19-block project. He underscores the need for approaches that are conscious environmental challenges, but stressed the importance of pedagogy, policies, procedures, practices, and programs.

In navigating these design complexities, there’s ingrained advocacy for equitable infrastructure, community engagement, and the preservation of soul. As they continue, they embody the belief that a city’s future must be shaped by acknowledging and rectifying its historical disparities.

Trace Past Practices

SYSTEMIC URBAN INJUSTICE

The Claiborne Ave. Expressway in New Orleans is deeply rooted in systemic racism and discriminatory urban planning. Emerging during the mid-20th century, redlining—a discriminatory practice employed by the Federal Housing Administration (FHA) and Veterans Administration (VA) fueled racial segregation by categorizing neighborhoods and systematically concentrating people of color into segregated areas, reinforcing resource disparities. Concurrently, the Federal Highway Act of 1956 and the era of urban renewal laid the groundwork for extensive infrastructure projects.

The Claiborne Expressway, conceived during this period, cut through the vibrant communities of Tremé and

the Seventh Ward, resulting in the loss of approximately 500 homes and 326 businesses, primarily owned by Black residents. This intersection of discriminatory housing policies and infrastructure projects underscored the entrenched inequality faced by marginalized communities.

Highways, integral to American life, play a central role in shaping communities, influencing jobs, housing, schools, and recreation. However, the convenience of living near roads comes with a significant drawback: continuous exposure to air and noise pollution from passing vehicles. These effects, often unnoticed by residents accustomed to their presence, can have significant long-term impacts.

HIGHWAY HEALTH HAZARDS

Studies show that people living, working, or attending school near highways face increased exposure to air pollution and noise, leading to severe health issues like lung disease, stroke, and premature birth. The concentration of pollutants poses a significant public health risk, particularly for vulnerable populations. This proximity also drives down property values, disproportionately affecting people of color and lowerincome communities, further hindering them from building generational wealth.

Using Louisville, Kentucky, as another case study, a city report showed that around 13% of residents live within 300 meters of federally designated interstates and are exposed to heightened pollution. It also reveals that people with lower incomes,

households receiving food stamps, and those without vehicle access face even higher exposure rates to roadway pollutants. Federal grants, such as those from the Infrastructure Investment and Jobs Act, offer a crucial opportunity to invest in pollution barriers and less-polluting roadway designs. These investments can foster neighborhoods less dependent on cars, improving public health.

The Claiborne Avenue Expressway, among other historically significant highways, illustrates the long-term multi-faceted consequences for residents living nearby. Addressing these impacts through targeted policy and design interventions is essential for creating healthier and more equitable urban environments.

The Claiborne Ave. Expressway. Adapted from a Photo by William Widmer. The New York Times.

The Polluted Life Near the Highway, Louisville Case Study. 2022. Gabe Samuels, Yonah Freemark.

SPATIAL MAPPING

This map shows that finding existing organizations offers a wealth of contextual strategies to learn from and leverage.

>6,000 Nonprofits

GREATER NEW ORLEANS AREA

19% Nonprofit Workers

CENTRAL CITY EMPLOYMENT

SPATIAL MAPPING

IDENTIFY EXISTING AREA ORGANIZATIONS

To effectively address community needs and ensure successful interventions, designers should first identify existing organizations operating within an area. This can involve mapping out local nonprofits, government agencies, and community groups to understand the landscape of services and resources

available. Identifying these organizations is crucial for several reasons: it prevents redundancy, fosters collaboration, and helps in leveraging existing expertise and networks. By understanding who is already active in a community, designers can build on current efforts and create integrated and sustainable solutions.

DETERMINE WHAT STRATEGIES CAN BE USED OR BUILT UPON

Evaluate the identified organizations to understand their methods and organizational structures, and potential stakeholders. Use insights from this process to determine engagement strategies, tailoring approaches based on what has worked well for the community’s unique needs.

“Central City is overstudied. I used to say Central City is the petri dish of nonprofit activity.

Going back 15 years, you have to justify your funding by looking at different census tracks. It used to line up perfectly where if you cross the census track, you had a wealthy area and a poor area. It was perfect, so it had more nonprofits than anywhere else in the city.”

-

MICHAEL ROBINSON, LEAD ORGANIZER JERICHO ROAD EPISCOPAL HOUSING

NOMA 2.0 AND GROW DAT YOUTH FARM

ALLOW EXISTING PROCESSES TO INFORM DESIGN

EXPAND CULTURAL PRACTICES

In Copenhagen, Denmark, Noma 2.0 stands as a pioneering example of integrating sustainable design with innovative gastronomy. Located between serene lakes in the vibrant community of Christiania, this project, led by renowned chef René Redzepi and designed by Bjarke Ingels Group, transforms a historic ex-military warehouse into a dynamic restaurant village.

A shadowing study of restaurant operations informed the design, resulting in a panopticon-inspired layout with an open kitchen and strategic observation points to enhance communication and workflow. Noma 2.0 also incorporates urban farming practices, such as rooftop gardens and hydroponic systems, enabling on-site cultivation of ingredients. This approach reduces reliance on external suppliers and lowers transportation emissions, aligning with Denmark’s commitment to sustainability.

In New Orleans, Grow Dat Youth Farm exemplifies a grassroots approach to sustainability. Situated on a seven-acre site in City Park, Grow Dat operates a two-and-a-half-

acre sustainable farm, producing 50,000 pounds of fresh produce annually. This community-driven farm, which lacks traditional fences, serves as an educational space and addresses food apartheid by offering affordable, locally-grown produce

Both Noma 2.0 and Grow Dat demonstrate how existing cultural and environmental practices can shape design. Noma 2.0 combines urban farming with efficiency, embodying Copenhagen’s innovative food culture. Conversely, Grow Dat’s emphasis on ecological farming and community involvement tackles food insecurity and environmental issues in New Orleans. These projects showcase the impact of leveraging cultural significance to adapt design to local contexts.

Grow Dat Youth Farm. City Park, New Orleans.

THIS IS A RESTAURANT VILLAGE IN DENMARK THAT PROMOTES CIRCULAR AGRICULTURAL PRACTICES

Noma 2.0, a restaurant village situated in Copenhagen, Denmark’s culinary hub, embodies a dedication to sustainable fine dining. By understanding existing processes and broader city ambitions, it merges architecture and gastronomy into an innovative culinary experience.

SHADOWING

Tailoring the design to enhance efficiency, a thorough study of restaurant operations was conducted. From this emerged a panopticon-inspired layout featuring an open kitchen with strategic observation points, for improved communication and workflow.

PROGRAM SYNERGIES

To meet the local demand for sustainable food production, Noma 2.0 integrated urban farming practices like rooftop gardens and hydroponic systems. This enabled on-site cultivation, reducing reliance on suppliers and lowering transportation emissions.

OPEN HOUSE

Despite its exclusivity, Noma 2.0 fosters interaction through the blur of public-private space, achieved with transparent design and minimal landscape disruption. This engages locals in the full farm-to-table process without physically opening the space.

NOMA 2.0, Copenhagen, Denmark. 2018. Adapted from a Photo by Rasmus Hjortshoj. Bjarke Ingels Group.

11TH STREET BRIDGE PARK

RECONNECT NEIGHBORHOODS FOR LOCAL REVITALIZATION

11 TH STREET BRIDGE CONNECTOR

Washington, D.C. divided by the Anacostia River, symbolizes historical economic and racial disparities. The affluent Ward 6, primarily White, has a median income of $129,000, while the predominantly Black Ward 8 has a median income of $45,000. The 11th Street Bridge Park seeks to address divisive urban projects by reconnecting neighborhoods and revitalizing the neglected east side, fostering city-wide inclusion.

The 11th Street Bridge Park, a collaboration between the nonprofit Building Bridges Across the River and the DC government, repurposes the old 11th Street Bridge into the city’s first elevated park. This initiative emphasizes community engagement and equity, having involved two years of hundreds of neighborhood meetings to shape its design.

Architects OMA + OLIN integrated community feedback into a world-class public space dedicated to recreation, arts, and environmental education. To

ensure inclusive growth, the project developed an Equitable Development Plan (EDP), securing over $10 million to implement its strategies. The Local Initiatives Support Corporation (LISC) committed $63 million through their Elevating Equity initiative, focusing on equity in the park’s impact area to mitigate displacement and gentrification.

Based on community feedback, key features of the park include outdoor performance spaces, playgrounds, urban agriculture, an Environmental Education Center, public art installations, and kayak and canoe launches.

The park connects Capitol Hill/ Navy Yard neighborhoods on the West with the historically isolated Anacostia/Fairlawn neighborhoods on the East, serving as a symbol of unity. The park’s “X” shape provides elevated decks for vistas and shaded pathways, accommodating both dedicated and casual uses.

THIS IS A ELEVATED PARK PROJECT IN D.C. AIMED TO RECONNECTED HISTORICALLY DIVIDED AREAS

The 11th Street Bridge Park project aimed to transform an old bridge into Washington, D.C.’s first elevated park, bridging communities across the Anacostia River. Through early planning and intentional involvement of diverse stakeholders, the project ensured equity and local support.

PUBLIC MEETINGS

Given the project’s aim to bridge significant economic and social divides, there was a need to collect wide-ranging input. The project held hundreds of neighborhood meetings over two years, ensuring the voices from both sides of the river were heard.

COMMUNITY AMBASSADORS

The complexity and scale of the project required ongoing community engagement. A series of half-day brainstorming sessions with key stakeholders acting as community ambassadors allows this to ensure local residents remained informed and involved.

PROGRAM SYNERGIES

Maximizing impact and fostering broader community support necessitated aligning with existing initiatives. Partnering with local non-profits and allocating project real estate to local businesses enabled direct, sustained investments into the community.

11th Street Bridge Park. Washington D.C. Unbuilt. OMA and Jason Long. Adapted from a Preliminary Rendering.

THE THADEN SCHOOL

ENHANCE EDUCATION WITH COLLABORATIVE DESIGN

PROMOTING HANDS-ON EDUCATION

The Thaden School in Bentonville, Arkansas, exemplifies innovative educational design through the collaboration of Marlon Blackwell Architects and EskewDumezRipple.

The 26-acre campus bridges hands-on learning and community engagement, showcased in the school’s signature programs: Wheels, Meals, and Reels, focusing on physics, biology, chemistry, and visual communication. The master plan, developed with landscape architects Andropogon and engineering firm CMTA, adopts an “urban pastoral” approach, blending modern urbanism with historical agricultural elements inspired by local chicken farms.

Central to the project’s success was extensive community engagement. Over thirty stakeholders, including school leaders, design staff, and representatives from local non-profits, participated in shaping the master plan. This collaboration ensured the campus would support academic excellence and foster strong community

connections. The unique curriculum provides students with real-world ‘learning by doing’ opportunities in various arts, culinary fields, bicycling, and community service.

The school buildings are dispersed across the site. Marlon Blackwell Architects designed 6 of the 7 campus buildings with climate-responsive features, using long, narrow bent forms to control sun exposure, facilitate natural ventilation, and frame gathering spaces outside. Their approach focused on creating seamless transitions between indoor and outdoor learning environments to support the school’s ‘whole student/whole body’ pedagogy.

EskewDumezRipple designed the Home Building, the campus’s social and spiritual hub, which includes a dining hall, teaching kitchen, library, and lounge areas. The design reflects precedents in the landscape, notably the idea of the Ozark farmhouse with sustainable design strategies, and an indoor-outdoor orientation.

THIS IS A SCHOOL CAMPUS IN ARKANSAS THAT USES ITS LANDSCAPE AS A PLATFORM FOR LEARNING

The Thaden School in Bentonville, Arkansas, is an educational campus by Marlon Blackwell Architects and EskewDumezRipple, emphasizing hands-on learning and community engagement. Involvement of over 30 stakeholders and non-profits ensured real-world learning opportunities.

COMMUNITY AMBASSADORS

In a community-centric project, identifying community ambassadors is crucial for ongoing engagement. Leveraging local individuals familiar with the area’s dynamics, ensures a continuous flow of information between stakeholders and the design team.

PROGRAM SYNERGIES

For a complex large scale project, coordinating with related ongoing initiatives can aligns efforts and cultivates broader community support. The Thaden School integrated complementary programs, enriching the educational experience.

AEIOU/ELITO METHOD

Using these methods, the project studied how stakeholders interacted, ensuring community activities were well integrated. This helped turn observations into actionable ideas, creating a cohesive environment that matched the campus goals.

The Thaden School. Bentonville, Arkansas. 2019. Marlon Blackwell Architects. EskewDumezRipple. Adapted from Photos by Timothy Hursley and Dero Sanford.

The Thaden School

Stakeholders reveal relationships with people and place, allowing design to extend and enhance these connections.

FACES OF THE BOOK

DANA ENESS

Executive Director, The Urban Conservancy

CHARLOTTE STEELE Director, Edible Schoolyard

AARON FRUMIN Founder, Uncommon Construction

KRISTEN ROME

Executive Director, Louisiana Center for Children’s Rights

MICHAEL ROBINSON

Lead Organizer, Jericho Road Episcopal Housing

ALISON TOUSSAINT-LEBEAUX

Community Stakeholder, Property Owner

DR. CALVIN MACKIE Founder, STEM NOLA

JEE PARK

Executive Director, Innocence Project New Orleans

PAMELA WALDRON-MOORE

Professor of Political Science, Xavier University

DARRIN M c CALL

Chief Program Officer, Youth Empowerment Project

RICHARD READ Director of Development, NOCCA Foundation

AMY STELLY Founder, Claiborne Avenue Alliance

DIMITRI CELIS Program Manager, Recirculating Farms

LOU ANNE WHITE Co-Founder, Louvis Services

CHABRE JONES Clinical Social Worker, Youth Empowerment Project

BRYAN LEE JR. Founder, Colloquate Design

During my fellowship, I had the privilege of engaging with representatives from a diverse array of organizations through informal conversations, collaborative projects, site visits, and events. These interactions—whether through training sessions, shared research, or firsthand observations— provided me with a rich tapestry of perspectives and insights.

Their work and experiences have profoundly expanded my understanding of the field and deepened my appreciation for the innovative approaches being pursued. I am grateful for the opportunity to learn from their remarkable contributions, which have collectively broadened my perspective and enriched my approach to our shared goals.

In addition to the individuals referenced throughout this book, I want to acknowledge the following organizations that played a role in my fellowship:

New Orleans Redevelopment Authority

Tulane, Critical Visualization and Media Lab (CVML)

Tulane, Phyllis M. Taylor Center for Social Innovation

LSU, Environmental and Occupational Health Sciences

Northeast Projects LLC

Together New Orleans

HousingNOLA

Dana Brown & Associates

Waggonner & Ball Architects

Gulf Coast Community Design Studio

The Undivided Project

PlayBuild New Orleans

Sankofa New Orleans

Sustaining Our Urban Landscape (SOUL)

The Neighborhood Design Center

The River East Design Center

BLDUS Washington D.C.

River Roads African American Museum

NOMA Louisiana Project Pipeline Summer Camp

Black Women in Architecture Network

Design as Protest Collective

Science History Institute Center for Oral History

Environmental Protection Agency