By Andrew Trippel, AICP, Communications Director
The Oakland City Council honored Rockridge residents James Rojas and John Kamp for their contributions to Oakland and their work creating vibrant public spaces and engaging communities. The special ceremonial event, held September 14 as part of Oakland Pride’s 16th anniversary celebration, recognized the two for their service and leadership.
District 1 Councilmember Zac Unger nominated the urban and landscape designers, noting their international reputation for innovative community engagement. Through their workshops, writing, and professional practice, Rojas and Kamp have helped communities rethink how public spaces are designed, used, and shared.
Kamp is the visionary behind Frog Park’s Climatescape, built from his many years of experience designing, installing, and monitoring landscapes that can grow and thrive without supplemental irrigation after the first growing season. The design incorporates a variety of wildflowers and pollinators, with plans to expand to allow park-goers to relax, play, and observe changes in the garden space.
John Kamp’s Frog Park Climatescape is ready for phase two.
Rojas is the founder of Place It!, a practice that uses hands-on activities to help communities shape ideas for their neighborhoods and public spaces through play and interaction. The approach encourages participants to explore creative ideas and develop inventive and innovative solutions to challenges facing their communities.
James Rojas, The Embedded Planner, can often be found working in his driveway in Baja Rockridge.
Their book, Dream Play Build: Hands-On Community Engagement for Enduring Spaces and Places, has become a guide for community members seeking to transform their neighborhoods and public spaces.
Congratulations is also sent to James, honored with the APA California Pioneer Award at the APA California 2026 Conference in Los Angeles on October 4. A valued contributor to Northern News, James is celebrated for his respected contributions to the planning community.
Congratulations, James, and thank you for your contributions to Northern.