Under the Point Cloud
Professor, Stevens Institute of Technology
Red Hook, Brooklyn

With a grant from the Autodesk Foundation, Professor Washburn and Research Associate Jason Beury researched and developed a proof of concept model for community mapping. They used emerging spatial data collection, interpretation and visualization techniques as participatory teaching devices in Red Hook, Brooklyn. Data collected using drone photogrammetry (aerial photos) and on-the-ground surveys were tested in various workflow scenarios to determine appropriate technical methodologies for social engagement and community buy-in. The purpose was to produce a computer model to design hydrologically effective improvements to the storm water management system [that would] reduce the risks of flooding and simultaneously improve the quality of daily life.  Washburn and

Beury used the grant to conduct research, run community training workshops, gather data and produce a computer model of the project site. The overall effort resulted in a series of trial workshops in Red Hook, Brooklyn and led to the ongoing construction of a Digital City Model that is representative of social and technical aspects of neighborhood character. Collaboration with the Red Hook Initiative’s Digital Stewards program was vital to fulfilling the social component of the project. Through conducting fundamental research into low-cost survey and mapping techniques using aerial and ground photogrammetry, they devised a series sociotechnical workflow mechanisms for organizing collected data into a platform for constructing, visualizing and interacting with a site-derived Digital City Model. In sum, the social and technical project components inform an evolving set of workshop mapping approaches and methodologies for Community Based Resilience Design.