We were honored to be included in the Oculus feature The Drama of the Commons: Engaging the Public. Oculus is a magazine published by the AIA New York chapter, exploring issues relevant to architectural discourse and practice. The article covers methods of tapping citizens' local knowledge through formal structures or ad hoc partnerships so firms can produce civic projects that avoid contention and serve communities' interests. Barbara was interviewed about the public engagement efforts W has led for numerous projects including the St. Petersburg Pier Approach, the Downtown Far Rockaway Master, Plan, West Harlem Piers Park. The article closes by encouraging architects to study social conditions as well as physical sites, and to engage the public in conversations so they can help improve civic spaces.