Knowledge Center
Public Space Management and Operations
Operations of a place requires the daily management of the physical space, whether publicly or privately owned, that encompasses cleaning, beautification, wayfinding, infrastructure maintenance, outreach, green space, and parking. Place managers address both the actual and perceived safety and security issues of a place by providing services, outreach and facilities. Place managers foster relationships with local and regional providers to share resources and information with the goal of cultivating safe and vibrant communities. Clean and safe teams have evolved within some districts to include engagement and intervention for those in need within our urban places.
Lessons from San Francisco’s DMACC Initiative
Lessons from San Franciscoā€™s DMACC Initiative explains a multi-agency response to open-air drug markets and neighborhood recovery. The Clear, Hold, Activate framework coordinates enforcement, health, homelessness services, ambassadors and economic development. Outcomes. Location: San Francisco, CA. Organization: Mid-Market Business Association and Foundation; Tenderloin Community Benefit District; San Francisco Office of Economic and Workforce Development; San Francisco Police Department.
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Active Alleyways – Reinvigorating Forgotten Spaces in Downtown Districts
Active Alleyways gives practitioners a framework for converting service corridors into public spaces through human-scale design, active edges, art and incremental pilots. Fort Wayne and Philadelphia cases cover murals, seating, lighting, crosswalks, waste conditions and alley surveys. Outcomes include cleaner dumpster areas, less adjacent trash and a repeatable path from small activation. Location: Fort Wayne, IN; Philadelphia, PA. Organization: Gehl; Downtown Fort Wayne; Center City District.
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Art Ave Presented by the Golden Triangle Business Improvement District
Art Ave transformed key downtown corridors with large-scale sculptures, murals, public spaces and seasonal programming designed to increase visitation and support businesses. The project created a cultural gateway and a replicable model for public space activation and revitalization. Washington, Golden Triangle BID.
Read More407 Connect
407 Connect provides overnight bus-based shelter paired with case management, housing placement and wraparound services for people experiencing homelessness. The initiative funds mobile sleeping accommodations, safety staff and housing support, with a goal of connecting 407 participants to housing over three years. Orlando, City of Orlando CRA.
Read MoreThe Community Safety Hosts Initiative
The initiative created a trained community safety workforce that bridges hospitality, outreach and public safety functions. Through extensive training, mentorship and data collection, the program improves interactions in public spaces and provides a scalable alternative to traditional security models. Winnipeg, Zoongizi Ode & Persons Community Solutions Ltd.
Read MoreJacobson Plaza
Jacobson Plaza transformed a former industrial site into a year-round civic destination with recreation, play areas, gathering spaces and inclusive amenities. The project improved connectivity, expanded park access and created a four-season public space model. Sioux Falls, Downtown Sioux Falls Inc.
Read MoreDowntown Denver Partnershipā€ÆProject: Building a Downtown Art Ecosystem on 16th Street
Denver created an art ecosystem along 16th Street through installations, murals, storefront galleries and events that support artists and activate public spaces. The strategy attracted visitors, filled vacant spaces and repositioned downtown as an experience-driven destination. Denver, Downtown Denver Partnership.
Read MoreThe Deck at Clarence Square
The Deck at Clarence Square used temporary infrastructure and recurring programming to restore public use of an underutilized park. Community events, seating and cultural activities increased visitation, strengthened trust and supported nearby businesses during long-term redevelopment planning. Toronto, Toronto Downtown West BIA.
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The Atlantic Avenue BQE Murals
The Atlantic Avenue BQE Murals transformed a neglected underpass into a public art gateway celebrating neighborhood history, culture and identity. Community-driven design, improved lighting and placemaking investments increased safety, visitation and neighborhood pride. Brooklyn, Atlantic Avenue BID.
Weā€™d love for you to see this member-only resource to help make a difference in your district. Make sure you are logged in or join IDA to learn more about how members get sh*t done!
Pixel Park Transformation
Pixel Park converted an underused parking lot into a year-round public destination with recreation, events, EV charging and community programming. Built with modular and accessible design principles, it supports redevelopment while strengthening public life during a major district transformation. Calgary, CMLC.
Weā€™d love for you to see this member-only resource to help make a difference in your district. Make sure you are logged in or join IDA to learn more about how members get sh*t done!
