On Thursday April 28th, CityWalk@Akard residents celebrated the opening of a new playground. The innovative indoor play area was made possible by members of the Dallas chapter of the American Institute of Architects (AIA) Emerging Leaders Program (2012-13 Class).

Located at 511 N. Akard, CityWalk is a unique 15-story building that includes affordable rental units, permanent supportive housing for the formerly homeless and several luxury penthouses as well as office space, and one of 7-11’s urban units. Built in 1958, it was left vacant and decaying for many years but today CityWalk is a vibrant “vertical neighborhood”.

The poverty fighting organization CitySquare is headquartered in CityWalk and manages programs to support its residents. CitySquare helps residents stay safe, supported, and productive by addressing immediate needs, providing ongoing case management, and coordinating residential events and activities.

Support from organizations like the AIA Emerging Leaders Program has helped create a great place for families to live with a real sense of community.