A capstone project created by urban planning master's students in the School of Planning and Public Affairs (SPPA) has received the Iowa APA Exemplary Student Project Award. The two-semester project, "Bondurant Parks, Trails, and Greenways Master Plan," was developed in collaboration with the Iowa Initiative for Sustainable Communities (IISC) and City of Bondurant stakeholders. It focuses on improving public health, promoting sustainability, and enhancing the overall quality of life in Bondurant by expanding its network of parks, trails, and green spaces. The project also highlights the importance of environmental stewardship and encourages active transportation. For more details and to read their final report, visit the IISC website.

The project team included Class of 2024 SPPA students Melanie Comer, Farnaz Fatahi-Moghadam, Maddie Stoen, and Ben Whisnant, as well as Kenna Bell, a student in Sustainable Development. Faculty advisors Travis Kraus and Scott Spak provided guidance throughout the process. By working closely with city officials and local residents, the team developed a plan that balances community needs with principles of sustainability. The plan lays out recommendations for expanding the park system, connecting neighborhoods with multi-use trails, and preserving natural spaces through greenways.

The Iowa APA Exemplary Student Project Award is given each year by the Iowa Chapter of the American Planning Association to recognize projects that showcase innovation, research, and practical solutions for real-world community challenges. This award not only highlights the students' commitment to public service but also emphasizes the role of the IISC in leveraging university expertise to benefit communities across Iowa. Through innovative and practical projects like these, University of Iowa students are helping to shape more sustainable and resilient cities across the state.