To design a mixed-use, mixed-income sustainable neighborhood for this individual based on their skills and vision, the following framework would integrate their focus on equitable, walkable community redevelopment in Midtown Santa Fe, with opportunities for both collaboration and education.
Neighborhood Concept
The community will be designed around walkability, affordability, and sustainability, supporting a diverse population. It will feature residential spaces for various income levels, green public spaces, and areas for small businesses, with a focus on local economy and collaborative design.
Key Components of the Design:
- Mixed-Income Housing:
- Variety of Housing Types: Affordable apartments, townhomes, and single-family houses, with rent-controlled units for lower-income families alongside market-rate homes.
- Community Land Trust (CLT): A portion of land is community-owned to keep housing costs affordable for generations.
- Energy-Efficient Homes: All housing will feature sustainable, energy-efficient materials and design—solar panels, rainwater collection, and green roofing.
- Sustainable Infrastructure:
- Eco-Friendly Transit: The neighborhood will be built around accessible public transportation, bike lanes, and walking paths to reduce reliance on cars.
- Walkable Layout: Streets will be pedestrian-focused, with local services within easy walking distance to reduce the carbon footprint.
- Green Spaces and Urban Gardens: Parks and community gardens will be incorporated to provide green spaces and encourage urban agriculture, promoting food sovereignty and connection with nature.
- Water Conservation: Efficient water management systems, including greywater recycling and native plant landscaping, will ensure sustainable water use.
- Mixed-Use Development:
- Commercial and Residential Integration: Retail shops, cafes, and co-working spaces will be integrated within residential areas to create a vibrant, walkable community. The design will prioritize locally-owned businesses over chain stores to strengthen the community economy.
- Maker Spaces and Workshop Hubs: Communal spaces where residents can collaborate on home improvement or creative projects, offering tools and resources to promote a culture of “build your own” and sustainability practices.
- Community Services Hub: A central building will host essential services like health clinics, a childcare center, and a small community center for events and education.
- Collaboration and Education Tools:
- Community Collaboration Platform: A digital platform will be developed for residents to propose and vote on neighborhood projects, share ideas, and track the progress of initiatives—facilitating the person’s goal of empowering people to collaborate for the common good.
- Community-Led Development Programs: Educational workshops led by residents (including the individual) on topics like home improvement, sustainable living, and community development, creating a shared knowledge base within the neighborhood.
- Apprenticeship Programs: Hands-on learning opportunities will be integrated into the construction and maintenance of the neighborhood, allowing residents to participate in building projects and learn valuable skills while doing so.
- Equity and Inclusivity:
- Diverse Housing Options: By offering a variety of housing types, the neighborhood will accommodate individuals and families from different socio-economic backgrounds, promoting diversity and social equity.
- Accessible Public Spaces: Parks, sidewalks, and public amenities will be universally designed to ensure accessibility for all residents, regardless of age or ability.
- Community Participation in Governance: Residents will have an active role in decision-making through regular town hall meetings and voting processes on community issues, ensuring that the neighborhood evolves based on the needs of its residents.
- Environmental and Economic Sustainability:
- Local Economy Focus: Encourage local entrepreneurship with affordable commercial spaces for small businesses, prioritizing sustainable and ethical enterprises.
- Energy Independence: Renewable energy infrastructure (e.g., solar panels, wind turbines) will help the community become energy-independent, reducing utility costs and environmental impact.
- Circular Economy Principles: Promote a circular economy where waste is minimized and materials are reused, through community recycling and composting programs, and support for businesses that practice sustainable production.
Vision:
The individual’s goal of helping redesign Midtown Santa Fe into a sustainable and equitable community would not only guide the physical layout but also ensure that residents are actively involved in shaping and maintaining the community. Their focus on teaching equitable and sustainable community redevelopment will be a core part of how the neighborhood grows and flourishes.