The City of Big Lake has several parks with aging playground equipment that needs to be repaired or refreshed. However, rather than simply repairing or replacing the deteriorating playground equipment, the City is interested in exploring alternative designs for these parks by asking the question — is there a way to create a better park experience for all ages? Students in Psychology of Sustainability will draw on psychological research and theory about how people interact with and respond to natural spaces as well as the psychology of play, child development, and sense of place to create recommendations for experiential park design. They will consider these recommendations within the City’s broader goal of creating infrastructure and opportunities for active living and outdoor experiences within the city. Finally, students will provide recommendations to encourage/motivate residents to use the new spaces.
Read the final student report delivered to the local gov/community partner.
Sustainable Communities Partnership Contact Info
University Faculty Contact
Britain Scott
Psychology
bascott@stthomas.edu
6519625039
Local Government / Community Contact
Michael Healy
City Planner
mhealy@biglakemn.org