Hi! I am Jessica.
I am an Atlanta-based urban designer with over 20 years of experience in urban design, planning, and community development. My work ranges from urban design and creative placemaking strategies to affordable housing, corridor revitalization, and citywide resilience planning. I have a particular interest in projects that call for fresh thinking, strong design ideas, and a deep understanding of the communities they serve.
Before starting JFG Cities, I worked as a Senior Urban Designer and Co-Director of the Resilience Lab at Perkins&Will, where I helped lead two citywide resilience strategies through the Rockefeller Foundation's 100 Resilient Cities initiative. Earlier in my career, I founded and directed a nonprofit serving underserved Hispanic women in Atlanta for seven years.
I care deeply about social justice, public art, innovation, and the power of good design to improve people's lives. I also believe that the best ideas are only as good as our ability to communicate them clearly.
Credentials and Education
AICP | LEED AP ND
Master of Science in Urban Design, Georgia Institute of Technology
Bachelor of Architecture, National University of Colombia
Master of Theological Studies, Candidate, Westminster Theological Seminary
JFG Cities is a woman-owned, DBE-certified firm.