Ingenuity Magazine Summer 2020

Pond Ingenuity Summer 2020 11 conventional planning process – so that the concept layout could be viewed in detail on top of aerial photography with commenting features using the tool’s interactive map function. OTHER CONSIDERATIONS While Pond has historically seen more engagement from these virtual methods than from traditional in- person approaches, our team is also sensitive to the dynamics that these methods rely on some level of internet access and comfort. Even within metropolitan areas like Atlanta, there are areas that remain undeveloped. In these areas, two conditions can exist. One, access to broadband is increasingly difficult resulting in reduced access to the internet and online digital media. Second, populations are less dense and may have not previously participated in public planning processes. Pond is currently working with the Cities of South Fulton and Chattahoochee Hills on the development of a master plan for the former community of Campbellton. This area remains rural with an older population that may be less experienced with digital engagement. Pond realizes that online engagement is not a solution for all situations and requires a case-by- case approach for each client. For the Campbellton community, we are relying on multiple strategies. • Mailings to all owners who live within or near the study area. These postcards are a soft introduction to notify people of the process. The postcards will provide a Social Pinpoint website for further engagement as well as contact information for each community. Pond will send out multiple mailings to keep people informed. • Incorporate Social Pinpoint and Pigeonhole Live as ways to expand the reach of the audience. • Early communication with both city councils who have direct access to stakeholders, businesses, and residents. Pond is encouraging elected officials to be advocates for engagement. • Pond is working with both communities to establish workstations at their respective city halls that people can use to access Social Pinpoint and provide feedback. FINAL THOUGHTS Nonetheless, this necessary shift to rely on virtual forms of engagement is actually an opportunity within our community and design based practices to get more diverse and broad input than is typically achieved by the formality of static community meetings. By focusing on tools that are intuitive, developing engagement exercises that replicate in-person events, and keeping engagement opportunities succinct and to the point, the Pond team is ready to help communities of all shapes and sizes achieve the bright future we can look forward to once this crisis subsides.  Eric Lusher, AICP Director of Planning Lauren Blaszyk, AICP Planner Andrew Kohr, PLA, ASLA Director of Landscape Architecture SR9 corridor in Forsyth county SR9 corridor in Forsyth county Online session for AeroATL Greenway trail system