CAPE MAY COUNTY CREATIVE PLACEMAKING PLAN

Cape May County, New Jersey

WHY

In 1989, Cape May County initiated a taxpayer-funded program to purchase and protect its open space and farmland. The program proved successful, and was eventually expanded to fund parks, recreational amenities, and historic preservation projects. Despite its success, the program has relatively low public recognition. To build program awareness and enhance funded projects, the county initiated a Creative Placemaking Plan to establish a brand identity, standards for park design elements and amenities, and a demonstration site design.

HOW

Designing Local facilitated four workshops to garner input from key stakeholders and develop and test ideas. A key part of the process was creating a community character framework to define the unique sense of place in Cape May County. This framework drove the creation of brand identity guidelines and was used in the design of various signage, site amenities, and architectural concepts throughout the county.

WHAT

The plan document, which was completed in August 2019, includes brand guidelines and original artwork, park facility design guidelines, a framework for public art and custom design, and a waterfront park concept.

COLLABORATORS

MKSK

SERVICES

Urban Planning & Design
Community Engagement