T
he Lewis Center for Sustainability Forum celebrated the 10th anniversary of its Building Healthy Places Toolkit, a groundbreaking resource that integrates health and wellness into real estate development. The forum, held on the first day of ULI's 2025 Spring Meeting in Denver, Colorado, brought together industry leaders to highlight the toolkit's significant impact and the evolving focus on health within the built environment.
Industry leaders, including Rachel MacCleery, executive director of the Lewis Center for Sustainability; Joanna Frank, president and CEO of Active Design Advisors and the Center for Active Design; and Brian Levitt, CEO of NAVA Real Estate Development, emphasized the toolkit's influence over the past decade. They noted that it has become increasingly relevant in real estate practices, with a growing recognition of the connection between health and the environment.
The Building Healthy Places Initiative was established in 2013 by the Urban Land Institute (ULI) to provide practical guidance on creating healthier places. The initiative leveraged funding support from the Colorado Health Foundation and partnered with the Center for Active Design to develop the toolkit. The comprehensive resource includes twenty-one evidence-based best practices, organized into three vital sections: physical activity, healthy food and drinking water, and a healthy environment that promotes social well-being.
The speakers highlighted the importance of creating healthier environments in real estate development, citing the economic benefits of fostering well-being. Brian Levitt emphasized that integrating health-oriented design has transformed his company's projects, with healthier buildings commanding higher rents and attracting long-term tenants.
As the discussion turned to the future, the speakers reflected on the implications of a health-conscious generation. Joanna Frank noted that younger renters value health and sustainability more than ever before, demanding spaces that support their well-being and understand the impact of their environment on their health.
The panel also highlighted the Mariposa District, a mixed-income housing development in Denver that has transformed community health and wellness. The district was built on the former site of the South Lincoln Park Homes public housing complex and features a range of innovative design elements, including community gardens, a daycare center, and a culturally appropriate graffiti mural.
Industry leaders Susan Powers, Renee Martinez-Stone, and Carolyn Reid discussed the importance of community engagement and partnerships in creating healthy communities. They noted that residents' input was crucial in designing the Mariposa District, with features such as washers and dryers in units, "Colorado closets" for family goods, and a bike store for repairs.
The panel concluded with a walking tour of the Mariposa District, led by Denver Housing Authority staff. The tour showcased the district's innovative design elements and highlighted the importance of community engagement and partnerships in creating healthy communities.
