Public spaces are not just physical infrastructure—they’re also social infrastructure that strengthens relationships, identity, and power within a community. But a key element of increasing the social impact of a public space is authentic, equitable community engagement. In this training, presenters will offer evidence, tools, and strategies for engaging communities early in the process of transforming a vacant lot, with an eye towards nurturing a community’s social capital. Participants will hear from local leaders in Chicago’s Woodlawn neighborhood and learn about their vision of an “emerald necklace” of community gardens that honors the neighborhood’s rich Black history.