Members of the Youth Executive Committee (YEC) had a very exciting day on Saturday. We were able to participate in the American Institute of Architecture's Box City Build. This event is part of Architecture Week.

Elementary aged youth from around the city came and built a city out of boxes. The youth learned a bit about the planning process along the way. When they arrive, students receive a permit based on what type of building they want to create - places to live, places to work, places to play, places to help people and more. Then, they are off to the hardware store to purchase supplies. After creating their building, the youth meet with a building inspector to make sure their building is safe. Finally, they meet with a city planner to find a location on the city grid that matches their type of building.

The YEC was on hand to gather Voices, talk about Case voting, and to help members of the Denver City Planning Department create a video about what kids like about Denver and what they would like to see more of.

We were very excited to see the kids building things we keep hearing are some of the best things about Denver including the Denver Skate Park (see a picture in the picture section of this website).

One parent described Box City as “one of Denver’s best events for youth.” We were very glad to be part of this child/youth friendly activity!

Tonight, the full YEC will visit Box City and will be joined by a city planner to learn more about the built environment and the planning process.