UB Faculty and Planning Students Receive Great Places Award

The University at Buffalo School of Architecture and Planning is pleased to share students in the Department of Urban and Regional Planning, Ehler Htoo; Rishabh Chopra; Julia Hayden; Leah Smolen; Sakshi Surawar; Leslie General; Madhumitha Kodimyala; Ale Andrzejewski; Jaden Keech; Satya Swaroopini Gangupati; Ian McCully; and Frankie Zhou; along with Kelly Gregg, assistant professor, have received the 2024 Great Places Award from the American Planning Association, New York Upstate Chapter. 

“For the past decade and beyond, [we have] recognized planning achievement through the Professional Awards Program and have had the wonderful opportunity to learn more about the work of our colleagues and communities throughout the State,” said Sarah Gatti, Chapter Vice President and Chapter Awards Chair.

Our students developed proposals for the Broadway-Fillmore Neighborhood in Buffalo’s East side. The studio proposed designs for streetscapes and public spaces with careful attention to connecting community assets (churches, community centers, and markets) and enhancing quality of life, walkability, neighborhood amenities, equity, housing options, and affordability. Students engaged with community partners and neighborhood stakeholders to identify opportunities for connecting neighborhood arts, cultural, and architectural amenities, improving pedestrian and cyclist safety, and developing new public spaces. Students presented multiple visions for improvements to community stakeholders, and the final report included proposals for funding, implementation, and site designs. Learn more here.