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Nic Com plaza .jpg
 Photo Credit- D. Aronson

While with DSU, Geoff served as the Lead Designer and manager for Heart of the City and Nicollet Commons in Burnsville, Minnesota.  Heart of the City is a landmark project in suburban transformation.  It is recognized as a regional model for smart growth, place-making, and economic development.  

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At the center is Nicollet Commons, a 2-acre town square that is one of the most artful and exciting spaces in the region.  Geoff's artful touch is evident in the design of all park elements including the arbor, obelisks, rain gardens and water course. Far exceeding expectations, Nicollet Commons has become a regional icon and gathering space.  It is the social center of town, hosting concerts, art fairs, community gatherings, weddings, and the informal playing, lunching, and lounging that not only demonstrates a community’s acceptance but has transformed community identity. 

 

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Nicollet Commons, Burnsville Minnesota

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"In a politically charged environment with extensive public involvement, Geoff’s collaborative spirit and design talents played a significant role in establishing the vision, and influencing public acceptance and investment in Heart of the City. His ability to capture the spirit of Burnsville in the design of Nicollet Commons has resulted in a beloved gathering place that has truly evolved into the heart of our city, artistically, symbolically, and socially.“

 

Elizabeth B. Kautz

Mayor, City of Burnsville

Former President, United States Conference of Mayors

Nicollet Commons Night columns.jpg
Nicollet Commons Wet Kid.jpg
 Photo Credit- D. Aronson

 

Awards:

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GREAT PLACES Honor Award, Sensible Land Use Coalition, 2013

ASLA-MN Award of Excellence 2006 (Nicollet Commons)

MNRPA Award of Excellence, 2005

MnAPA Outstanding Project and Planning Tools Award 2001

ASLA-MN Merit Award 2000  Heart of the City Framework Plan 

ASLA-MN Merit Award, 2002. I-35W Burnsville Gateway Bridges,

ASCE-MN, Honor Award

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Publication:  “Square One,” Architecture Minnesota, March/April 2007

 Photo Credit-  St. Paul Pioneer Press
image003 adj 1.jpg
 Photo Credit:  Jim Gallop
Centrifuge water .jpg
Sculpture:  "Centrifuge" by  Foster Willey
Photo Credit- G. Martin
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Burnsville, MN--Heart of City--Jazz Fest
 Photo Credit- Bonestroo
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