The second time I used Overpass Turbo —this time focusing on Austin— the process became more analytical and intentional. Having already worked through the challenges of filtering OpenStreetMap data in Charlotte, I approached Austin with a clearer framework for what qualifies as a meaningful trip generator. I refined my queries from the beginning, grouping destinations into logical categories such as education, food access, retail, recreation, and transit. Instead of simply mapping points, I was now thinking ahead about how their spatial concentration could reveal patterns of movement and activity across the city.

Once the trip generator data was cleaned and imported into GIS, I used it to create a kernel density map. The purpose of the kernel density analysis was to move beyond individual points and visualize intensity—showing where destinations cluster and where activity is likely concentrated. Each point representing a school, grocery store, transit stop, or commercial use contributed to the overall surface, with areas of higher concentration appearing as stronger “hot spots.” The radius (search distance) was carefully selected to reflect a reasonable walking distance, ensuring the map represented human-scale accessibility rather than arbitrary spread.

The kernel density map became a turning point in the analysis. Rather than guessing where activity was strongest, the map clearly revealed clusters of trip generators across Austin—and, just as importantly, where those clusters were absent. Our project site fell within one of these low-density areas, effectively a “dead zone” when compared to surrounding neighborhoods. This visual confirmation reframed the design conversation: instead of simply adding program, we began to think strategically about how to seed new trip generators, strengthen connections to nearby clusters, and transform the site from an isolated gap into an integrated part of the city’s activity network.

Group project disclosure

This project was completed with 4 peers: Alex Schust, Ellie New, Kristen James, and Leah Ballou. My contribution was primarily the “creating an informed design” and “a day at patchwork” slides. My role was primarily mapping, diagramming, and research. I did not create 3D renders.