In 2021, Austin became the first city in the world to require SITES certification for all new park development—solidifying its leadership in sustainability, green infrastructure, and climate-resilient public spaces. The Sustainable SITES Initiative (SITES) is a comprehensive rating system that promotes ecologically healthy, high-performing landscapes through regenerative and site-sensitive design. Developed in part by the Lady Bird Johnson Wildflower Center, SITES aligns closely with Austin’s values of environmental stewardship and equitable city building.
This mobile tour explores the roots and real-world applications of Austin’s green building movement through visits to two dynamic SITES-registered park projects in East Austin.
The program begins with an overview of Austin’s green building legacy, highlighting early leadership from the Austin Energy Green Building (AEGB) program, innovations from the Center for Maximum Potential Building Systems, and the influential role of the Lady Bird Johnson Wildflower Center in shaping both the LEED and SITES frameworks.
The first stop is Mary Elizabeth Branch Park, a 3.5-acre public space in the heart of the Mueller neighborhood. The park integrates sustainable water strategies, native plantings, and an all-ages, inclusive design approach that supports community health and resilience.
Next, participants will visit the Pharr Tennis Center at Patterson Park, renovated in 2023 with an emphasis on green infrastructure, stormwater management, and resource-efficient materials. This project is currently pursuing dual SITES and LEED certification, demonstrating how sustainable goals can be embedded into both new parks and renovation projects.
At each location, attendees will hear from local experts about the design process, site performance, and lessons learned in delivering high-impact, sustainable public spaces.
This workshop is ideal for landscape architects, urban planners, sustainability professionals, and anyone interested in the intersection of green infrastructure, parks, and inclusive urban design.
Support is provided by the Robert Wood Johnson Foundation. The views expressed here do not necessarily reflect the views of the Foundation.
