The American Institute of Architects has a 50-year history of public service work. The AIA’s Center for Communities by Design has conducted design assistance projects across the country. Through these public service programs, over 1,000 professionals 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. Its projects 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 Railyard Park.
Portland architect Paddy Tillett, FAIA, describes the American Institute of Architects' Regional and Urban Design Assistance Team (R/UDAT) program, and how teams of outside professionals can "look beyond the obvious" and integrate multiple perspectives into a realistic strategy.