FRI-A11: Unlocking Potential: Activating Vacant Parkland for Inclusive Communities

Friday, October 10, 2025

8:30 AM – 9:45 AM CT

1.25 PDH, LA CES/HSW

Speaker(s)

Ishita Ghosh, Assoc. ASLA, AIA, SITES AP (she/her/hers)

Planner
Design Workshop
Austin, Texas
Claire E. Hempel, ASLA, PLA, AICP, LEED Green Associate, SITES AP (she/her/hers)

Principal Landscape Architect
Design Workshop
Austin, Texas
Warinda Harris (she/her/hers)

Non-profit Leader
Central Texas Interfaith
Austin, Texas

Learn how you can help empower underserved communities with a toolkit that was created to transform vacant parkland into vibrant, inclusive spaces. Bridge resource gaps, address historical inequities, and create sustainable parks in any neighborhood. Join us in setting a nationwide example for equitable park activation and community revitalization.

Learning Outcomes:

Promote inclusivity and address the unique needs of underserved populations. The toolkit emphasizes the importance of clear communication, active listening, and inclusive participation.
Bridge the gap between underserved communities and grassroots organizations, enabling them to collaborate more effectively with city officials to create vibrant and accessible public parks.
Resolve major barriers to park activation, such as the complexity of the existing system, including funding, permitting, and insurance.
Understand how the toolkit serves as a potential model for communities nationwide, as parks’ budget constraints are a challenge for cities everywhere.