2024 ASLA-NY Design Awards

Congratulations to doctoral student Ruiqi Yang and CED professor Jessica Fernandez for receiving an award from the New York Chapter of the American Society of Landscape Architects!

Yang and Fernandez have received a 2024 Merit Award in Analysis, Planning, Research and Communications for their in-depth analysis of user experiences with urban green spaces at High Line Park in New York City.

"As our cities grow, it’s imperative that we understand what makes great green spaces," said Yang, who is pursuing a Ph.D. in environmental design. "Our research takes an important step in that direction."

Their research utilized a large dataset of 34,060 Tripadvisor reviews to uncover what continuously draws millions of people to the High Line.

"This empirical knowledge serves as a critical resource for decision-makers and planners, informing future urban revitalization and greenway projects," said Yang. "The findings not only underscore the importance of user-centered design but also offer transferable insights for similar initiatives in other urban contexts, contributing to the broader field of sustainable urban development."