Stakeholder Engagement
We design and implement collaborative engagement strategies that bring together diverse perspectives and foster meaningful participation. We build coalitions across public, private, and community institutions, use innovative outreach methods, facilitate transparent dialogues to navigate complex political transitions, build community trust, and ensure development initiatives reflect shared values and prioritize long-term equitable outcomes for all stakeholders.
HR&A shaped New York City's approach to sustainability and equity through leadership of two landmark planning initiatives spanning over a decade. Our strategic planning for PlaNYC (2007-2011) and OneNYC (2015, 2019) positioned NYC as a national leader in municipal climate action while evolving the city's governance framework to center equity, ultimately aligning $117 billion in capital investments with community-driven priorities.
HR&A Advisors guided the Brooklyn Bridge Park Development Corporation through a comprehensive predevelopment planning process that transformed 85 acres of vacant, post-industrial piers into one of New York City's premier waterfront destinations. By creating an innovative self-sustaining funding model and facilitating complex stakeholder engagement, HR&A broke a 20-year implementation stalemate, enabling the award-winning Michael Van Valkenburgh-designed park to move from vision to reality.
Following years of temporary solutions, Greater Richmond Transit Company (GRTC) engaged HR&A to lead a comprehensive site selection process and transit-oriented development study for a permanent Downtown Transfer Hub. This multi-phase approach culminated in a development concept, funding strategy, and implementation roadmap that has advanced to a formal agreement between GRTC and the City of Richmond as GRTC pursues federal grant funding for construction.
HR&A led a multidisciplinary team to develop a comprehensive Master Plan for Seattle's iconic Pike Place Market, addressing financial sustainability, declining farmer presence, and shifting visitor demographics. Working with the Pike Place Market Preservation & Development Authority, we delivered a strategic roadmap to revitalize the Market by embracing Pacific Northwest "Food Life" and reconnecting with local audiences.
