The Public Realm as Infrastructure: Rethinking Streets, Parks, and Civic Spaces as Interconnected Systems

Public spaces—streets, parks, and civic areas—are often viewed in isolation, but in reality, they are critical components of urban infrastructure that support mobility, health, and social interaction. This  2-hour continuing education webinar reframes public spaces as interconnected systems and explores their role in enhancing city livability and resilience. Participants will examine planning and design strategies that maximize public value, addressing connectivity, inclusivity, and long-term performance in the context of environmental, social, and economic sustainability.

By the end of this webinar, participants will be able to:

• Define the role of streets, parks, and civic spaces as integrated systems within the broader urban infrastructure.
• Understand how the design of the public realm can support environmental, social, and economic sustainability, with a focus on HSW (Health, Safety, and Welfare) factors.
• Identify strategies for creating accessible and inclusive public spaces that enhance social interaction and mobility.
• Discuss the long-term performance and resilience of public spaces, especially in the context of climate adaptation.
• Examine case studies that demonstrate best practices for designing public spaces that function as cohesive urban systems.
• Explore the impact of policy, regulation, and community engagement in shaping successful public spaces.