Placemaking, Streets and Urban Design
Designing neighborhood spaces that foster belonging and vitality.
In the urban sphere, the idea of connection to community is fostered first with family, then in the places we work and then, in “third spaces.” Third spaces anchor our sense of community identity; they are places that we visit regularly without specific purpose because we look forward to being there, enjoying the company that we find in these neighborhood institutions. These places can include pubs, bars and coffee shops, libraries, and municipal parks and playgrounds. The following organizations and entities are resources for creating and activating third spaces:
New York City
NYC DOT Open Streets - Transforms streets into public space open to all. These transformations allow for a range of activities that promote economic development, support schools, facilitate pedestrian and bike mobility, and provide new ways for New Yorkers to enjoy cultural programming and build community.
NYC DOT Pedestrian Plazas - NYC DOT partners with community organizations to create plazas and prioritizes neighborhoods that lack open space. Reclaimed streets are transformed into vibrant, social public spaces for all to enjoy, enhancing safety, walkability, and access to public transit while supporting community, commerce, and culture.
National
Design Trust for Public Space - an incubator that transforms and evolves New York City's landscape through collaboration with city agencies and communities.
Reimagining the Civic Commons - A collaboration of national foundations and local civic leaders working to reimagine public spaces in ways that benefit communities.
Project for Public Spaces - A placemaking approach to help communities transform their public spaces into vital places that highlight local assets, spur rejuvenation, and serve common needs.
