The term placemaking has become ubiquitous in community development circles, yet project discussions tend to focus on either large-scale attention-grabbing installations or small one-off mural or beautification projects. However, communities of all sizes can enhance their placemaking efforts by thinking more broadly and leveraging new technologies to ensure that time and money invested make the biggest impact. This year’s Scalable Innovations in Placemaking Council explored the tools and approaches to make placemaking happen for any UPMO, in any community.
Placemaking activities should be incorporated into a broader plan, rather than regarding them as one-off projects, or projects to enhance individual spaces. The planning process generally includes an assessment of current users/uses and gaps in activation, outreach to current and target audiences, and inclusion of a mix of programmed/temporary/permanent experiences that benefit the district year-round and can be tested, evaluated and tweaked over time.
Fortunately, new technologies make data collection, space design and impact tracking simpler and easier. Geofencing data can provide information on demographic and foot traffic patterns, while the use of QR codes or augmented reality allow organizations to track usage and engagement. These technologies are generally affordable, especially when the technology can be reused in other areas or shared with partners. Knowing who is doing what and when helps UPMOs design, adapt and market installations in a targeted way.
Don’t forget that private and civic sector partners can play a role in placemaking. If every landlord, business and church had an activated footprint, it relieves the burden on public spaces. Most entities want to see themselves as welcoming and part of the community, and may just need ideas, assurances (and maybe some seed funds) to create an engaging yard, plaza or entrance that collectively make the district more vibrant. All placemaking is positive, but with a little advance thinking and technological tools, large benefits are attainable for everyone.