2025 Class of Fellows: Wm. Christopher Cline, FASLA, Prairie Gateway Chapter

Confluence, Kansas City, MO
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From Chris Cline's early work in land development to leadership in large-scale transportation, redevelopment, and business strategy, he has advanced the role of landscape architects as leaders in shaping cities, infrastructure, and public policy. Throughout his career, he has expanded the profession's influence by leading complex, multidisciplinary initiatives that integrate landscape architecture into transportation networks, urban revitalization, and sustainability policy-areas historically dominated by engineers and planners. Chris began his career working in land development. From there he joined HNTB's Urban Design and Planning Group, where he led large-scale transportation projects, including the design of light-rail park-and-ride stations to support future mixed-use, transit-oriented development in Denver. He returned to development in 2005 and then in 2008, Chris joined Confluence. His leadership in marketing and business development strengthened Confluence's market position, forged strategic partnerships, and secured high-profile projects such as the Falls Park Conceptual Master Plan and the Imagine Downtown Kansas City 2030 Strategic Plan. He advanced innovative planning frameworks, redefined public spaces, and set new benchmarks for excellence. Chris has personally led projects that have earned 107 awards, including eight international and national honors, 69 ASLA regional and state awards, and 22 additional accolades from professional organizations. Chris served as Prairie Gateway Chapter president from 2017 to 2019, where he revitalized the organization through leadership restructuring and a strategic membership drive. His active involvement in the Urban Land Institute has helped the development community understand the value of landscape architects and their essential role in creating sustainable resilient communities. By bridging disciplines and leading collaborative initiatives, Chris has positioned landscape architecture as a driving force in infrastructure, urban polity, and sustainable development.