Semester
Summer
Date of Graduation
2025
Document Type
Thesis
Degree Type
MLA
College
Davis College of Agriculture, Natural Resources and Design
Department
Landscape Architecture
Committee Chair
Peter Butler.
Committee Member
Stefania Staniscia.
Committee Member
Michael Strager.
Abstract
McKeesport is a city located along Monongahela and Youghiogheny rivers in Allegheny County, Pennsylvania, about 13 miles southeast of Pittsburgh. It is part of the River metropolitan area. McKeesport, once a thriving center of steel production, is now facing significant challenges associated with industrial decline, urban blight, flood hazard, population decline, brownfield sites and environmental degradation. However, the transformation of neglected spaces within the city into sustainable and vibrant urban hubs offers a powerful opportunity for revitalization. By incorporating natural elements such as green roofs, urban agriculture, and native plant restoration, this project seeks to create spaces that not only improve environmental quality but also promote social well-being and economic growth, with community and stakeholders’ engagement. Additionally, sustainable stormwater management, renewable energy integration, and ecological restoration techniques will be employed to mitigate the environmental impacts of industrialization and climate change.
The goal of this project is to demonstrate the transformative potential of biophilic design, sustainable site initiatives, and regenerative landscape design in revitalizing neglected and underutilized spaces in McKeesport, Pennsylvania. By using available GIS data and remote sensing analysis to integrate these innovative design principles, the project aims to enhance environmental sustainability, housing, attract investments, new opportunities in landscaping, and urban farming and contribute to regional economic resilience. Also, the project seeks to foster community engagement, and promote economic revitalization, turning abandoned residential, railroads, industrial sites and brownfield sites into vibrant, eco-friendly spaces that are beneficial to the environment and the local population.
Recommended Citation
Kikanme, Chinweuba Stephen, "Demonstrating the potential of biophilic design, sustainable site initiatives, and regenerative landscape design to transform neglected and underutilized spaces into vibrant, eco-friendly hubs in Mckeesport Pennsylvania." (2025). Graduate Theses, Dissertations, and Problem Reports. 13017.
https://researchrepository.wvu.edu/etd/13017