A collaborative effort between Iowa State University and the city of Boone, Iowa, is aiming to reshape the community’s parks and recreation spaces. Thirty-six landscape architecture students from Iowa State’s College of Design dedicated their fall 2025 semester to long-term planning for Boone’s parks, working directly with the Boone City Park Commission.
Planning for the Future
Under the guidance of professors Tom Neppl and Adina Cox, the students focused on developing design concepts for a variety of park features. These included trails, conservation areas, gardens, and potential art installations. The students’ work wasn’t confined to the classroom; it involved direct engagement with the Boone community.
Community engagement took the form of sessions and visits to local schools. To broaden their understanding of landscape architecture, the class also traveled to Chicago. There, they studied established landscapes and gained insight into professional design practices during a visit to Hoerr Schaudt Landscape Architects.
Benefits of Collaboration
Boone Parks superintendent Mike Cornelis highlighted the efficiency gained through the partnership. He stated that the collaboration allowed the department to explore forward-thinking ideas more effectively. The students, in turn, benefited from the opportunity to apply their academic knowledge to real-world public spaces.
It is possible that the designs developed by the students will be incorporated into future park development projects in Boone. The City Park Commission may choose to prioritize certain concepts based on community feedback and budgetary considerations. Further collaboration between Iowa State and Boone could also lead to additional planning initiatives.
Frequently Asked Questions
What was the focus of the students’ work?
The students developed design concepts for trails, conservation areas, gardens, and art installations within Boone’s parks and recreation spaces.
Who oversaw the students’ project?
Professors Tom Neppl and Adina Cox from Iowa State University’s College of Design supervised the students throughout the fall 2025 semester.
How did the city of Boone participate in the project?
The Boone City Park Commission collaborated with the students, and Boone Parks superintendent Mike Cornelis expressed support for the partnership.
How might community-university partnerships shape the future of public spaces in other towns and cities?
