Shaping Spaces: Centering Youth Voices in Planning

Broaden the lens through which you approach the public realm by focusing on an often-forgotten or overlooked demographic: youth, and specifically, teenage girls. Teenagers are among the most frequent users of public spaces — some of the only places youth can claim for themselves. However, public spaces are often designed with fields, courts, and skate parks that push teenage girls to the periphery. Just as we’re starting to reckon with the fact that public space design is not gender neutral for adults, we must realize this is also the case for children and adolescents. Current planning practice must consider how boys and girls play and socialize, how teenagers use their environment, and how societal constructs influence their behavior.

Hear diverse perspectives on designing for teens, from research to project management and community engagement. Through case studies like the Western Avenue Corridor Plan, the Haughville Riverfront Plan, and the Clarkston Greenway Plan, learn the importance of giving teens agency and flexibility in planning. Learn how to best collaborate and partner with teen organizations during different phases of the planning process.

The panel dedicates this session to the memory of Aditi Subramanian, whose passion for this work continues to provide inspiration and guidance.

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