Public officials and residents in Porter County can learn about how to improve public spaces and build more sustainable communities at a workshop hosted by a new Purdue University Extension program. The workshop will take place on Thursday, February 13 from 10 a.m.-3 p.m. at the Woodland Park in Portage. Lunch will be provided.
Participants will work with Purdue Extension specialists and educators to learn more about the vital role parks, town centers, and other public spaces play in the long-term economic, social, and environmental health of communities. Collaborative activities will also introduce participants to best practices for improving public spaces and give them the tools they need to plan and implement projects tailored to their community. Participants are encouraged to bring laptops for this portion of the workshop.
“The resources and strategies provided in the workshop will help community leaders charged with managing public spaces and implementing new projects to build communities that are more resilient to economic and environmental changes,” said Kara Salazar, sustainable communities Extension specialist for Illinois-Indiana Sea Grant and Purdue University Extension.
This and similar workshops held throughout the state this winter launch the new Extension program Enhancing the Value of Public Spaces. The program provides continuing education and resources for regional, community, business, and neighborhood leaders in Indiana.
To register for the free workshop, contact Kris Parker at 219-465-3555 or parkerkj@purdue.edu. Please indicate any dietary preferences while registering.
To learn more about Enhancing the Value of Public Spaces and other Purdue University and Illinois-Indiana Sea Grant sustainability programs and resources, contact Kara Salazar at 765-496-1070 or salazark@purdue.edu.