Reimagining the Civic Commons for Macon, GA
Urban & Public Realm Design Studio
Urban & Public Realm Design Studio
Macon-Bibb County, GA
Spring 2026
Urban Design Studio II — University of Georgia
Spring 2026
Urban Design Studio II — University of Georgia
Tools:
GIS · Illustrator · Photoshop · Canva · Gemini
Type:
Individual + Collaborative Research Contributions
PROJECT OVERVIEW
This project explored how public space, connectivity, and civic infrastructure could support more equitable urban revitalization in Macon, Georgia, through the Reimagining the Civic Commons initiative.
Focusing on downtown Macon and surrounding neighborhoods, the work examined gaps in connectivity, access, and public life to propose a more integrated civic realm system centered on trails, parks, mobility, and neighborhood activation.
MY ROLE:
• Conducted research on Civic Commons strategies, MAP XL, and downtown revitalization frameworks
• Analyzed patterns of connectivity, investment, and public activity across Macon
• Identified Napier Heights as a key opportunity area for neighborhood-scale revitalization
• Developed conceptual public realm and connectivity strategies focused on equitable access and community activation
• Created custom GIS-based graphics and visual mapping systems to support the project narrative
• Analyzed patterns of connectivity, investment, and public activity across Macon
• Identified Napier Heights as a key opportunity area for neighborhood-scale revitalization
• Developed conceptual public realm and connectivity strategies focused on equitable access and community activation
• Created custom GIS-based graphics and visual mapping systems to support the project narrative
PROCESS / THINKING
My work explored how connectivity and cultural identity intersect within Macon’s public realm.
Using mapping analysis and visual storytelling, I examined where investment and activity were concentrated. Then, identified where neighborhoods (particularly Napier Heights) remained disconnected from the city’s civic and cultural energy.
The visual language of the project was inspired by Visit Macon’s existing neon-inspired branding identity, translating the idea of “Where Soul Lives” into a spatial strategy focused on extending that experience beyond downtown.
FINAL OUTPUTS
