News & Education
Find out what is happening with the project and what we are learning!
Indigenous Biophilic Design & Equitable Access to Nature Planning
“Biophilia is humankind’s innate biological connection with nature. It helps explain why crackling fires and crashing waves captivate us; why a garden view can enhance our creativity; why shadows and heights instill fascination and fear; and why animal companionship and strolling through a park have restorative, healing effects,” (14 Patterns of Biophilic Design, Terrapin Bright…
Traditional Ecological Knowledge (TEK) & Worldviews on Nature
The concept of how humans and non-humans define and ultimately engage with each other is under hot debate as new solutions for planetary health are sought. At core are fundamental differences in philosophical systems of belief. In contrast to Western precepts of nature where humans tend to be segregated and disconnected from nature, Native American…
Interview with Dr. Robert D. Brown
Professor of Landscape Architecture and Urban Planning at Texas A&M & Best Practices Panel Member for the SWMD transformation project In terms of medicine and climate, there are a lot of innovative changes that have (or are) coming that is student led, curriculum development (like the national climate report card, etc.). On your website, you…
Transforming Sustainably and Regeneratively
Texas Trees Foundation seeks to conserve, connect, restore, and enhance the urban ecosystem along the SWMD Streetscape Project so that people thrive in a healthier and more responsible environment where they work, live, and visit. The 2016 Southwestern Medical District Urban Streetscape Master Plan outlined a framework for healthy systems, healthy people, and healthy environment…
Sustainability and Heath Care
Over the past few years, the medical community has rallied together to acknowledge that it has a vital role to play in addressing climate change. This effort grew out of the recognition that the health care system is itself a major driver of environmental pollutants that adversely affect human health.1 There is growing consensus that…
A History Book Synopsis for the Hospitals of the Southwestern Medical District
“It takes a great deal of history to produce a little literature.” – Henry James Thanks to their tireless efforts, and passion for our city’s history, Evelyn Montgomery, Ph.D. Director and Curator for the Old Red Museum of Dallas County History and Culture, along with Robert Prejean, Southwestern Medical District Manager and Urban Planner have…
Urban Story
A Conversation with Robert Prejean Bricks, one of the oldest known building materials, came about when man thoughtfully mixed straw and clay together, creating a stronger product than the sum of its parts. For Robert Prejean, Manager and sole employee of the Southwestern Medical District, his brick making exists in the form of combining two…
Beginnings and Endings: Reflections on the SWMD
This month we take a pause from our normal routine, a departure from usual topics and featured articles to reflect on days gone by and days to come. The SWMD is in the midst of great change, change that will usher in new opportunities for innovation and growth, pave the way for new experiences for…
Dr. Alex Ponette-González Interview, August 2022 Newsletter: Special Edition Part II
“Trees in urban areas may work as urban air filters. Tree canopies are more effective than other vegetation types, and building materials such as glass, in scrubbing pollutants from the air. Many urban planners think about the benefits of planting trees in cities, but more research is needed on how the trees improve air quality.”…
Pegasus Park Pilot Study
Urban Heat Sensor Assessment and Evaluation July – August 2022 Compiled by: Rose Jones, Ph.D. Research & Strategy in Urban Green Health Texas Trees Foundation August 16, 2022 “We must listen to science – and act.” ~ Presidential Executive Order1 Overview On Thursday, July 21, Texas Trees Foundation (TTF) placed 8 mean radiant temperature…
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