Following his recent accreditation as a Healthy Streets Practitioner and Designer, Sam Williams, Director in our Melbourne office, shares his reflections on the role of civil engineers in creating healthier, more inclusive, and community-focused street environments:
This is more than another badge—it’s a meaningful step in rethinking how civil engineers contribute to placemaking and public health.
The accreditation builds on PJA’s commitment to create street environments that support healthier, more equitable and connected communities. I feel genuinely privileged to work alongside colleagues in Australia, and the UK, who are thought leaders in equitable access, safer speeds, and active travel—and challenge the status quo on every project.
This journey has been shaped by some excellent discussions—most recently at the Placemaking Summit 2025 in Melbourne. One comment that stuck with me was someone saying, “I’m not a placemaker.” But the truth is: everyone is. Whether you realise it or not, your work, your decisions, even your offhand comments all shape a place.
It’s often those who don’t see themselves as placemakers who can have the biggest impact—sometimes unintentionally. A passing remark like “the community wouldn’t accept that”—without speaking to the community. The specific location of signs reducing footpath widths during detailed design. Or opting for a standard guardrail outside a school, without considering the message that sends to children and carers.
Thanks to Lucy Saunders FFPH for leading a rigorous and thought-provoking course, and for continuing to push us all to consider how streets can better support human health and experience.
Looking forward to applying this learning in the streets we design and the conversations we shape.
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Sam Williams, Director
Sam heads up the Melbourne office of PJA and has over 14 years’ experience in civil engineering design consultancies.
He has worked on a wide range of projects including: development infrastructure, public realm improvements, national cycle routes and urban regeneration.
Sam brings a genuine passion for early engineering engagement at concept stage to ensure that a creative and credible design can be delivered.
Get in touch with Sam: [email protected]
