ABSTRACT
Urban planner James Rojas' 'hands-on' planning initiatives demonstrate the power of mobility. He uses transportable models and moving workshops as a way to involve citizens in the urban planning process. He takes a medley of recycled materials of vibrant colors and varied shapes, textures, and sizes to urban neighborhoods, street corners and public locations. By setting up these interactive models in publicly accessible locations, he encourages curious participants to use their hands and minds to experiment and create models of their ideal city, street, public space, or building. These mobile and on site events take the planning process directly to the people. By giving them the opportunity to have a 'hands-on' experience in envisioning their city, workshops help participants feel more connected to the urban landscape that surrounds them. These experiences set the groundwork for them to get involved in urban planning, and can help provide policy makers, urban planners, and architects with tools for information gathering.
