In this episode, we’re joined by Lindsey Machamer, Division Manager for Park Development at the Austin Parks and Recreation Department, to explore how sustainability, resilience, and equity show up in the design and delivery of public spaces. Lindsey shares her career journey from civil engineering to municipal leadership, offering an inside look at how cities like Austin use tools such as LEED, SITES, and Envision to shape parks, trails, and infrastructure. We discuss green stormwater infrastructure, nature-based play, circular economy practices like deconstruction and materials reuse, and the critical role cities can play as first adopters of sustainable practices. Lindsey also reflects on mentorship, change management, and why she firmly believes every job can be a green job—making this episode both practical and inspiring for anyone working to shift the status quo. 

Books

• A Natural History of Empty Lots by Christopher Brown

Certifications

• LEED (Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design) 
• SITES - a rating system for sustainable landscapes 
• Envision - a rating system for infrastructure projects

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