024: Connecting Design, Faith, and Advocacy: Shaping Fayetteville with Jessica Lewallen

In episode 24, Jessica Lewallen, founder of Gemstone Design Studio and a member of the Fayetteville Housing Crisis Task Force, joins us to discuss her multifaceted career in architecture, urban planning, and community advocacy. We explore her passion for addressing Fayetteville’s housing crisis, the connections between her faith and professional work, and the role of churches in providing sustainable housing solutions. Jessica also shares insights into the 71B rezone, Urban Land Institute initiatives, and the importance of enhancing public transportation and active transportation infrastructure to build a more connected and inclusive community. Additionally, she highlights her efforts to promote diversity in real estate development and the impact of creative urban design on the future of Fayetteville.

Show Links:

• Gemstone Design Studio
• Fayetteville Housing Crisis Task Force
• AIA Arkansas
• Urban Land Institute Northwest Arkansas (ULI NWA)
• ULI Academy for the Built Environment
• ULI REDI
• ULI WLI
• ULI 2024 Place Summit
• Groundwork NWA
• City of Fayetteville Planning Department
• Trailblazers
• Ozark Regional Transit (ORT)
• 71B Rezoning
• YIGBY
• E-bike rebate program coming in 2024