The American Institute of Architects (AIA) has a 45-year
history of public service work, helping communities come together, articulate
their vision and realize their dreams.
Over 1,000 professional from more than 30 disciplines have provided
millions of dollars in professional pro bono services to more than 200
communities across the country, engaging thousands of participants in community-driven
planning processes. R/UDATS have led to
some of the most recognizable places in America, such as San Francisco’s
Embarcadero, Portland’s Pearl District, and the Santa Fe Rail Yard Park.
WHAT IS R/UDAT?
Created in 1967, the AIA’s R/UDAT program pioneered the
modern day “charrette” process involving a very experienced team of 6-10
planners, architects, facilitators and other relevant disciplines - all
volunteers - in 4 intense, dynamic days (and nights!) of high-level dialogue
with businesses, nonprofits, community members and the public sector to produce
community visions, action plans and recommendations.
HOW IT WORKS?
From start to finish, a community owns the process and the
ultimate plan. First, a community
recognizes and commits to addressing unfulfilled potential for itself. Second, a broad cross-section of the
community works together to demonstrate commitment to the process and outcome
by raising resources (in-kind or cash) to cover expenses related to the four
days of tours, public workshops, small group sessions, stakeholder interviews,
formal meetings and presentation.
A local host committee applies to the AIA for selection as a
R/UDAT program, educates the community about the program, enlists participation
and support, and organizes and hosts the R/UDAT team and work sessions. The final work product from the team is a
multiyear, multifaceted plan and prioritized recommendations for short and long
term improvements, policies and developments.
HOW MUCH DOES IT COST?
The expenses include services like transportation, lodging,
meals, printing, office supplies, media outreach, meeting space. Most if not all expenses can be covered
through in-kind contributions from the community at large; such participation
literally and figuratively secures local buy-in to the process. Generally, these expenses total approximately
$50k - $60k.
WHY ARE R/UDATs SPECIAL?
Three guiding principles set R/UDATs apart from other
planning efforts.
1.
Multi-disciplinary expertise.
Each project benefits from a team of seasoned experts that is tailored
to address the specific complex needs and wants of the community. They examine issues and solutions from
various viewpoints and incorporate insightful best practices in an integrated
and reality-based approach.
2.
Enhanced objectivity.
The goal of each team member is to provide communities with a framework
for action. As volunteers deliberately
selected from outside the area who are not trying to build their business, they
bring technical expertise and objectivity that transcends normal politics and
best serves the public interest.
3.
Public participation:
The AIA has four decades of practice engaging communities large and
small. This is
leveraged by working with and through local stakeholders to build on the
substantial local expertise and knowledge already present and availability
within the community.
The professional services that are rendered through a R/UDAT
process have been valued at almost $200,000.
Most importantly, R/UDAT projects have been successful catalysts for
dramatic, positive change.
Clink on the link below for a short film on the R/UDAT program:
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=3SLxenuomss
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