Too often, community enhancement conversations start with a conversation about elements that are perceived to be missing. For example, discussions might center on how to fund a new pool, splash pad, bike rack or parking lots— but seldom do these conversations include an assessment of the utility of existing infrastructure: How are the existing streetscape and built infrastructure performing? What is the potential for past investments to evolve and reflect current needs? Can we get more use out of these items before we add something new? It is all too easy to overlook the existing infrastructure, but as the examples below prove, examining it with fresh eyes can result in unexpected and impactful projects. 

By pairing underutilized spaces with unmet needs, communities can not only better provide for the needs of residents, but also increase activity levels and the perception of safety in these areas. In some instances, an established community group may be a natural leader for change, either because it already serves a key local population, or because it is looking for a way to expand its services to a new area. Examples of effective partnerships include:

• La Crosse’s Arts Alliance, which partnered with the city to install dance steps in the sidewalk to increase awareness of the arts for all passers-by;
• Ripon’s Library Story Walk, which hosts a weekly story walk, installing new children’s book pages in display stands along a half-mile stretch of the Northwestern Trail adjacent to downtown; and
• Downtown Janesville’s On Top of Downtown event series, which utilizes the vacant top level of a parking structure for an evening event series, featuring concerts, yoga and other activities with a skyline view.