Master of Landscape Architecture (MLA) Culminating Experience

This project, in partnership with the City of Pomona, California develops an equity-based approach to enhancing green infrastructure, and improving access to amenities for historically underserved neighborhoods. Traditionally, equity has been defined in terms of even distribution of resources, often overlooking historical patterns of unequal treatment. This project focuses on equality of outcomes for each neighborhood to ensure a more inclusive approach.

Pomona, situated on the easternmost edge of Los Angeles County, is the 7th largest city in the county, with a population exceeding 150,000 residents. Its development began in 1888, initially consisting of a small network of streets surrounded by vast agricultural fields. Over time, the urban landscape has undergone significant changes, influenced by historical policies like redlining, multiple freeways intersecting the city, and railroad development. These changes have left many neighborhoods vulnerable to neglect, environmental hazards, safety concerns, and health-related issues.

The project commenced with site observation, geospatial technical research, and community analyses. Pomona is divided into six council districts each characterized by distinct features. The district system was created for equal representation but has also caused division within Pomona. Interviewing city staff and officials, as well as surveying locals during community engagement revealed many diverse perspectives of Pomona, which makes project allocation and decision making even more complex. Since every council district is different, each council member feels pressure to demand and advocate for specific requests, improvements, as well as necessities for the people within their own district.

An equity index was developed to identify areas most affected by stormwater issues, environmental burdens, pedestrian safety concerns, and demographics challenges in order to reveal how neighborhoods are being impacted by local issues. The observational analysis revealed various issues across these districts, particularly evident in the central areas of Pomona, in neighborhoods in proximity to the railroad tracks. These issues include poor pedestrian infrastructure, lack of climate-resilient features, stormwater management issues, and high numbers of vulnerable demographics based on age, median income, population density, and cardiovascular disease.

To address the issues identified by the equity index, the Equity Network is proposed. The concept intends to foster a more cohesive and connected community throughout Pomona. It is a starting point for an updated general plan that lays the foundation for long-term community development and well-being.

The Equity Network aims to direct resources to areas most in need by establishing vibrant neighborhood centers, enhancing cross-town connections through pedestrian-prioritized infrastructure, and implementing stormwater management solutions. The ultimate goal is to improve the overall quality of life, foster a sense of belonging, develop climate-resilient infrastructure, and enhance pedestrian safety while furnishing the city with access to resources throughout Pomona. These efforts will provide city officials with valuable insights to guide resource allocation decisions effectively.

By focusing on these crucial factors and vulnerability, the Equity Network seeks to ensure that all neighborhoods in Pomona are accounted for to receive equitable access to resources and amenities. This approach acknowledges the diverse needs of the community and strives to address historical disparities effectively.