STOCKYARDS SOCIAL CONDENSER

DSGN410 Collaborate / FALL 2020

As stewards of the built and natural environment, it is our responsibility to design for all: regardless of race, gender, sexuality, financial status, or ability. The Green New Deal serves as a legislative reminder of the systemic injustices, exacerbated by climate change, which disproportionately affect frontline and vulnerable communities.

Holding the title of “world’s largest stockyard” from 1955 to 1971, South Omaha’s agricultural and industrial heritage once positioned the community as an economic powerhouse. Since the Stockyards’ decline and eventual closure at the turn of the millenium, the site has underperformed as a first generation suburban core.

The Stockyards district is sited southwest of a major highway junction. Coupled with substantial railways and heavy industrial zoning, this infrastructural corridor segregates South Omaha from the rest of the city. Despite territorial setbacks, the community has a rich cultural identity due to its current and historical status as a destination for immigrants, a reputation largely attributed to the presence of the food processing industry.

We aim to invert the Stockyards site from one which historically fostered industrial productivity to one which facilitates socio-cultural productivity through the introduction of a Social Condenser typology. The project will promote collaboration, variability, and resiliency within the South Omaha community through programs which provide access to nutrient rich food, affordable space to operate small businesses, area to safely hold formal and informal gatherings, access to academic assistance and enrichment, opportunity to create and share art, engaging historical and cultural education, and access to a quality outdoor environment.