Land Use Writer
Michael Baker International
Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania
Carolyn Ristau is a Land Use Writer with Michael Baker International's Design Hub. She uses plain language and storytelling to write, edit, and advocate for zoning codes that are inclusive, readable, and implementable. She has over a decade of experience working in zoning, community development, and housing in Pittsburgh and Pennsylvania.
Inspired by her work experiences, Carolyn is researching morality, zoning, and redevelopment. She conducted the research project "Residential Zoning by Race: How Pittsburgh's Zoning Districts Promote Different Housing Options for Black and White Residents" as the 2022 PHFA Kathy A. Possinger Housing Policy Fellow and 2021-2023 Visiting Scholar at CMU's Remaking Cities Institute. Her professional mission is to demystify the black box of zoning to lead to more equitable regulations.
Prior to joining the Michael Baker Design Hub, Carolyn worked in the City of Pittsburgh's zoning division and at several Pittsburgh-based non-profits focused on housing development and community engagement. She graduated summa cum laude from the University of Pittsburgh in 2012 with a BA in Urban Studies. She is the author of "Zoning Adventures: A Home Addition Paper Chase" (2020) and "Zoning Adventures: A Coffee Shop Two-Step" (Anticipated 2023).
Tuesday, April 4, 2023
10:15 AM – 11:00 AM CDT