Each year, OU’s Institute for Quality Communities collaborates with cities across the state on built environment projects that have a positive social impact. During the spring semester, communities are invited to submit project proposals that are matched with different courses across Gibbs College or are delegated to the IQC graduate assistant team.
In November, the Yukon City Council approved an agreement with the IQC to develop a tree canopy plan for Garth Brooks Boulevard. The City of Yukon will provide a $2,500 local partner match to help with future beautification efforts along this busy commercial road. This project is focused on increasing safety and comfort for pedestrians, supporting local businesses and strengthening the natural environment.
Yukon planning staff will work closely with a group of OU Environmental Design students, led by Professor Sarah Little, to create unique design concepts for this corridor. According to Danielle O’Neal, assistant planning director for the City of Yukon, “The beautification plan will have conceptual drawings that may help us gain access to various funding sources to increase landscaping along Garth Brooks Boulevard in the future.”
During the spring 2024 semester, an interdisciplinary team of OU students and graduate research assistants will begin developing the project. To ensure their designs meet the needs of the local community, the team will engage in a series of community engagement events, including walking tours, lunch with key project partners and meetings with project stakeholders to share preliminary ideas.
As a part of their studio course, the students will then spend four to six weeks refining a report with proposed concepts and recommendations. Once finalized, that report will be delivered to Yukon city officials to guide them in the revitalization process of this corridor. Learn more about the upcoming project at yukonprogressnews.com.