Approach and Purpose 

The 2023 Fulton Community Design Fellowship, coordinated by the Community and Economic Development Initiative of Kentucky (CEDIK) at the University of Kentucky, focused on activating community spaces in Fulton through design, placemaking, and public engagement. Supported by a USDA Workforce Development Grant, the summer fellowship brought together nine multidisciplinary students in architecture, landscape architecture, arts administration, agricultural economics, and community leadership development. Their task was to develop a community plan that builds upon Fulton’s strengths and identity while addressing long-term recovery needs following the 2021 tornadoes. Working in collaboration with local leaders and the National Park Service Rivers, Trails, and Conservation Assistance Program, the fellowship aimed to enhance Fulton’s public realm, stimulate economic resilience, and inspire civic pride through thoughtful design strategies. 

Key Insights 

Fulton’s cultural and geographic context presents both challenges and opportunities. Once a thriving railroad town known as the “Banana Capital of the World,” the city now faces population decline, aging housing, and limited tourism infrastructure. However, its strong local identity, existing parks, and annual Banana Festival provide a foundation for revitalization. The fellowship identified key design opportunities that celebrate Fulton’s heritage while improving quality of life. Concepts such as the proposed “Banana Boulevard” downtown streetscape envision a pedestrian-centered, art-filled corridor that enhances walkability and community interaction. Similarly, the proposed “Weaks Nature Park” redevelopment, including a treehouse village, amphitheater, and restaurant, aims to promote tourism and local recreation. Drawing on lessons from case studies in Pineville, Chattanooga, and Gatlinburg, the fellowship demonstrated how small-scale, community-driven design interventions can yield meaningful social and economic impact when paired with strategic partnerships and phased implementation. 

Next Steps 

CEDIK and Fulton’s local partners are encouraged to continue advancing the community’s design vision through phased investments, community engagement, and resource coordination. Early priorities include implementing visible, low-cost improvements such as beautification, signage, and public art to build momentum and strengthen civic pride. Longer-term actions involve pursuing funding for larger infrastructure and tourism projects, particularly around Banana Boulevard and Weaks Nature Park. Continued collaboration with federal and state partners such as the USDA, FEMA, and NPS will be essential to sustain progress. Maintaining an active web and social media presence will help promote Fulton’s identity, share updates, and attract new visitors. By combining local creativity with strategic design, Fulton can transform its public spaces into engines of connection, resilience, and shared prosperity.