Happy Holiday Season from the Hudson Valley Initiative at Columbia GSAPP. As we approach winter, we would like to thank you for your interest and support in our commitment to designing and building a better future in the Hudson Valley. We had a productive Summer and Fall, working with several organizations in the Valley, both in and beyond the classroom.

In Newburgh, the Hudson Valley Initiative is collaborating with Scenic Hudson and the City of Newburgh develop a toolbox for city-owned vacant lots as part of the city’s comprehensive Open Space Plan. This toolbox will describe different options and mechanisms for design, stewardship, programming and long-term maintenance of these lots. As part of this project, the team will install a pilot at 191 South Street to test ideas and collect feedback from residents. Work on the toolbox will continue into the Spring of 2019. #lotsofideasnewburgh

In Hudson, we are working with Friends of Oakdale Lake to develop a vision for Oakdale Lake in order to improve ecological conditions and recreational opportunities for all Hudson residents and in particular youth participating in Hudson Youth Department summer programming. We started with a hands-on workshop with youth in the summer camp designing signage for a nature trail and envision our dream playground. In October, we asked adults for their input at a community workshop at the Hudson Area Library. Stay tuned for an upcoming public meeting on December 11 to discuss our draft designs and an exhibition in early 2019 at the Hudson Area Library. #OakdaleLake

Finally, we recently completed a report for the Eutopia Foundation, framing the design parameters to establish a community at Wally Farms, in Columbia County. The Foundation seeks to develop space and opportunity for like-minded individuals to form a community that addresses the challenges of climate change by drawing on the arts, sciences and practice to develop and share innovative solutions that respect all beings. The final report documents research and design scenarios and explores models of environmentally, economically and socially sustainable living which supports exchange among Foundation targeted populations including artists, makers, scientists and innovators.

We look forward to exciting new projects, collaborations and classes in and about the Hudson Valley in the coming year. Until then, enjoy the Holiday Season and say hi in person at one of our upcoming events below.