Open spaces embody the potential to be the public commons — culturally driven places for gathering, political action, and recreation. During periods of community change, shared open spaces can act as visible, living anchors for communities in transition. The organizations that participated in the Community Development Investments program worked with artists to build or revitalize parks and plazas in their communities. These projects served to:

• Engage with residents about open space revitalization projects (Mime Spenard, Reclaiming Asphalt, Milan Public Space Revitalization, St. James Downtown, Worthington Design Standards)
• Design or program culturally relevant spaces (Ho'n A:wan Community Park; My Park, My Neighborhood; Community Catalyst Residency, 3600 Spenard Plaza, Strawberry Mansion Reimagines Mander)