In 2022, the City of Kingston engaged KaN Landscape Design, Inc. to undertake the design of a public park located in Midtown Kingston. A significant aspect of this project involved deep community engagement efforts. Collaborating closely with local youth groups, KaN crafted specialized curricula tailored to each organization. The aim was to actively involve and empower these young individuals in conceptualizing their city’s communal areas and fostering a sense of ownership over community engagement.

Throughout the process, KaN extended invitations to local organizations, encouraging them to collaborate and contribute. Their participation spanned from the project’s inception, marked by a poignant land acknowledgement, through the distribution of surveys, and culminating in the presentation of the finalized design. This inclusive approach allowed the design to evolve organically, drawing from the rich tapestry of interactions and insights. It melded elements rooted in the area’s historical narrative, addressing the pressing needs of an environmentally underserved population, and embracing the leadership demonstrated by the local youth.