Third year landscape architecture students propose improvements to Valverde neighborhood

Last week, Associate Teaching Professor Emily Greenwood and Assistant Teaching Professor Sara Tabatabaie's intermediate landscape architecture students presented their innovative projects, which aimed to improve the Valverde Neighborhood to the local community at the Youth Empowerment Center. 

The student-led designs were focused on creating safer, greener and more vibrant spaces that celebrate the unique culture of Valverde. The exhibit showcased projects in four key areas of the neighborhood: 

Platte River Redesign: This project proposed ways to enhance recreational spaces along the South Platte River, improve connectivity for residents, and address issues related to pollution. 

West Bar Val Wood Park Redesign: Students designed a plan for creating a safer, shaded environment for community events, relaxation and gatherings, while also exploring the possibility of renaming the park to better reflect its significance. 

Street Improvements Project: This design focused on making the streets in Valverde greener and safer, improving connectivity between residents, local parks and the Platte River Trail. 

Northwest Valverde Improvements: This project revitalized vacant lots and improved transportation options and parking spaces in the northwest corner of Valverde, enhancing overall accessibility and community engagement. 

Presentations reflected the students' commitment to addressing the needs and aspirations of the Valverde community by proposing solutions that promote sustainability, inclusivity and cultural pride. 

The event was a wonderful celebration! The community consistently praised us for our thorough research, our ability to represent their needs and desires, as well as our expertise in stormwater management, climate resilience and cultural representation.