Trailblazer Jane Reed Ross to be Inducted into the Prestigious Council of Fellows

Senior Landscape Architect Recognized for Profound Impact on Community Spaces

If you have walked the Rotary Trail, ridden a bike down the Shades Creek Greenway, or watched your child play at Homewood’s Central Park, Jane Reed Ross has probably played a crucial role in designing that experience. Ross, a formidable trailblazer and a Senior Landscape Architect at Goodwyn Mills Cawood (GMC), has been recognized for her unique contributions by being named to the 2024 Class of the Council of Fellows by the American Society of Landscape Architects (ASLA).

Well known for creating some of Birmingham’s most iconic public places, Ross will be inducted into the Council of Fellows, one of the highest honors the ASLA bestows upon its members, in a prestigious ceremony in Washington, D.C., come October.

Making Birmingham’s Most Iconic Places

“Jane has profoundly impacted not only the landscape architecture profession, but the communities she serves. Almost anywhere you go in Birmingham, you’ll encounter a space she’s helped create, including the city’s most iconic places like Rotary Trail and Railroad Park. Our communities are better because of Jane’s vision, and I can think of no one more deserving of this honor” says Jeffery Brewer, CEO, Goodwyn Mills Cawood.

Among other notable milestones in her illustrious career, Ross has played a crucial role in designing Birmingham Zoo, Homewood’s Central Park, Jones Valley Trail, Rotary Trail, Shades Creek Greenway, Aqueduct Trail in Tarrant, and campus plans for Auburn, UAB, and UNA. Furthermore, she has significantly contributed to the enhancement of Lane Park in Mountain Brook and Pepper Place in Lakeview.

Building Community and Improving Quality of Life

Ross’s credit extends beyond just the design of these spaces. One of her most significant contributions has been her role in developing the Red Rock Trail System Master Plan in Jefferson County, a pivotal initiative promising to serve the community for generations.

“Ever since I studied landscape architecture at Auburn University, I’ve been drawn to working in public spaces. I’ve had the good fortune to work on many different types of parks, trails, streetscapes, and campuses over my career. I’ve experienced first-hand how important spaces like these are when it comes to building community and bringing people together. For me, it’s all about striving for the common good and improving quality of life.” Said Ross.

A Distinguished Fellow

Ross becomes the fourth Birmingham resident to be named to the ASLA’s Council of Fellows, joining the ranks of past honorees Sharon Deep Nelson, Stephen Schrader, and Nimrod Long.

“I’m so excited, but not surprised, that Jane has been elevated to ASLA Fellow for her outstanding contribution to the profession. She has truly made a difference in Birmingham for residents and visitors. Her role in creating vibrant spaces throughout many communities has changed the face of Birmingham creating healthy spaces, improving the economy, the environment, and the landscape architecture profession…” commented previous honoree, Sharon Deep Nelson.

Without a doubt, Ross’s legacy will continue to shape Birmingham’s landscape and community, influencing and inspiring future generations of landscape architects.