The project addresses the role of urban parks and open spaces in the downtown community through written document and as well as through conceptual design of proposed project using the principles derived from some current movements, the traditional American towns, and some successful cases. The goal of this project is to study how to revitalize downtown's community through the physical design of urban parks and open spaces in the community. Heekin Park and surrounding neighborhoods in Muncie, Indiana are selected as the sites for this study. Literature reviews, case studies, and analysis of site context are included in the study. Design recommendations for the open spaces in surrounding neighborhoods and a concept for Heekin Park are the written and graphic product of the project. The solutions can be used as a general recommendation to improve the conditions of open spaces in downtown community. The concept for Heekin Park will be used to illustrate the potential of the site as an attractive space for the people of Muncie, IN. / Department of Landscape Architecture

This study has examined opportunities for reclaiming industrial brownfield sites for the communities that surround them, recreating derelict sites as community-oriented spaces that increase understanding of and restore pride in industrial and cultural heritage.The study consisted of two primary components. The first phase consists primarily of an exploration of the linkages between landscape/urban design and industrial heritage. This phase also examines and evaluates various design projects that have attempted to celebrate industrial heritage through the adaptive re-use of former industrial sites. The second phase of the study consists of the development of a master plan for the transformation of a derelict industrial site to a community space that interprets and celebrates industrial heritage. This phase includes researching the industrial heritage of Muncie, selecting an appropriate project site within the city, and developing a master plan for the reclamation of an industrial site by the community.A layered design strategy was developed for the selected site, with the end result being a master plan for a new public park. The three elements of the design strategy included industrial heritage, adaptive reuse, and improvements in the surrounding community. / Department of Landscape Architecture