Parks: The Master Planning Mindset

From napkin sketches to developing lasting landscapesBy Douglas GerberWhether a master-planning idea emerges from public-outreach efforts, community initiatives, or common needs, an idea takes hold and exploration ensues. These flashes of brilliance may have significant impacts on the built environment, but where to begin? This article will explore how that idea can be developed into a defined program, and then how it can be translated into an enjoyable park, trail, or greenspace. The first step is to recognize an idea and then communicate that to the next person. Often, these next people are friends, family members, coworkers, supervisors, or community leaders.