Mark Johnson

Biography: Mark Johson, FASLA, is co-founder and Principal of Citivas, Inc., a nationally recognized urban design, planning, and landscape architecture fim located in Denver, Colorado. Mark's background includes many of the most challenging public projects throughout the United States. Since graduation from The Harvard Graduate School of Design, he has returned consistently to speak as well as teach and serve as a visiting critic. His long-term commitment to and involvement in the redevelopment of Denver's Central Platte Valley redefines the role of the urban designer and landscape architect in the development process. His drive to make cities better, paired with a willingness to engage in the political as well as the creative process has resulted in a reputation for getting things done. Recently, Mark designed the Master Plann for Commons Park, the largest and most significant link in Denter Riverfront Park system, which is now near completion. The 30-acre site located on the Platte River in downtown Denver, Colorado, follows the construction of Civitas' City of Cuernavaca Park and precedes the formal gardens of Centennial Park, now in design development. These projects have necessitated work with surrounding neighborhood groups, a steering committee, and the Mayor's South Platte River Commission. He is currently working on significant redevelopment projects in Salt Lake City and Memphis. Over the past 20 years, Mark has made major contributions in the field of transportation planning and design. Over time, Mark, has developed a reputation for integrating a pragmatic approach to urban planning with conscientious design. He is well known locally for his ability to communicate technical and conceptual information as the basis for gaining community consensus.