An open-source initiative for reimagining our shared spaces.
Across the United States, thousands of buildings, lots, and facilities sit underused or neglected. At the same time, communities need affordable housing, modern workspaces, vibrant gathering places, and new opportunities for economic growth.
Build America is a collaborative, open-source project where architects, planners, engineers, entrepreneurs, and community members work together to design ready-to-use masterplans for transforming these spaces. Each plan is detailed, costed, and freely available — giving local governments, developers, and citizen groups a starting point they can adapt to their needs.
We believe development shouldn’t be locked behind closed doors. Every community deserves access to high-quality, practical redevelopment plans — created in the open, shaped by public input, and shared without restrictions.
Our goals:
- Turn dormant spaces into thriving community assets
- Provide cities and neighborhoods with shovel-ready, adaptable proposals
- Bridge the gap between visionary ideas and actionable plans
- Inspire collaboration between public, private, and citizen-led initiatives
Whether it’s a 40,000 sq ft retail center ready for revitalization, a disused industrial site, or an empty city lot, Build America provides a clear path from what it is to what it could be.
Get Involved
The strength of Build America comes from the people who contribute their ideas, skills, and passion. Whether you’re a designer, developer, policy maker, investor, or community advocate, there’s a role for you.
Visit our Contact page to reach out — let us know your interests, your expertise, or the space in your community you’d like to see transformed. Together, we can turn open plans into real change.