Diversity, Equity and Inclusion

How do we reimagine infrastructure when equity is at the core of the design?

In this short video, experts highlight how infrastructure can either reinforce inequality or actively dismantle it—depending on the choices engineers, designers, and planners make.

🔗 Watch the reel: Instagram Video

How can we design infrastructure projects that actively support justice for marginalized communities?

Think about:

• Who is typically left out of decision-making processes?

• What would it look like to embed equity into technical specifications?

• Are there projects you've worked on or seen that succeeded (or failed) at this?

Share your thoughts, experiences, or even questions.

#Inclusionandbelonginginengineeringworkforce

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Michele Heyward A.M.ASCE
Denmark SC
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Thanks, Michelle. You pose excellent and timely questions.

The Arizona city's "Shade Phoenix" initiative (link below) has admirable aims, methods, and successes in a city strongly affected by global warming and its resulting climate change effects.

It funds the commonly recommended green spaces and tree planting and is linked to a widely reported Cool Streets program of coating asphalt pavements with reflective paints. Commercial buildings are encouraged to employ awnings and green roofs. It employs a "Tree Equity Score" to identify areas of need and public participation to design planting plans.

I no longer live in Phoenix, so it would be good to hear from someone there to get their perspective.

Link: Shade Phoenix

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William McAnally Ph.D., P.E., BC.CE, BC.NE, F.ASCE
ENGINEER
Columbus MS
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I watched the Instagram video. While the background information is important, I think there are more effective approaches for making changes to existing areas with similar issues.

An approach seeking allies would be more likely to produce desirable outcomes. A video might point out the temperature and health problems, then describe the benefits all Richmond will gain from a Green Spaces initiative in Gilpin Court – fewer sick days and ER/hospital visits – saving both public and private money. Among more expensive modifications, a highway tunnel with a park or shops on top will benefit all the surrounding neighborhoods. A less expensive option might include solid fencing or a thick line of shrubbery along the highway side to redirect air flow and noise. Residents of that area (using the public engagement ideas you mentioned in the recent panel discussion) can come up with more and better beneficial ideas in concert with urban planning specialists.

Bill Mc

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William McAnally Ph.D., P.E., BC.CE, BC.NE, F.ASCE
ENGINEER
Columbus MS
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