Location: Nationwide
Website: artplaceamerica.org
ArtPlace America (ArtPlace) is a ten-year collaboration among a number of foundations, federal agencies, and financial institutions that works to position arts and culture as a core sector of comprehensive community planning and development in order to help strengthen the social, physical, and economic fabric of communities.
ArtPlace focuses its work on creative placemaking, which describes projects in which art plays an intentional and integrated role in place-based community planning and development. This brings artists, arts organizations, and artistic activity into the suite of placemaking strategies pioneered by Jane Jacobs and her colleagues, who believed that community development must be locally informed, human-centric, and holistic.
In practice, this means having arts and culture represented alongside sectors like housing and transportation – with each sector recognized as part of any healthy community; as requiring planning and investment from its community; and as having a responsibility to contribute to its community’s overall future.
In scanning the community planning and development field, we found five types of stakeholders working across ten sectors that, while not comprehensive, capture a majority of work taking place.
ArtPlace has four core areas of activity: a national grants program that annually supports creative placemaking projects in communities of all sizes across the country; our Community Development Investments in 6 place-based community planning and development organizations that are working to permanently and sustainably incorporate arts and culture into their core work; field building strategies that work to connect and grow the field of practitioners; and research strategies to understand, document, and disseminate successful creative placemaking practices.
At ArtPlace we believe that successful creative placemaking projects do four things:
- Define a community based in geography, such as a block, a neighborhood, a city, or a region.
- Articulate a change the group of people living and working in that community would like to see.
- Propose an arts-based intervention to help achieve that change.
- Develop a way to know whether the change occurred.
In everything we do and support, arts and culture work to help achieve a place-based change, which means that it is the community development interventions that are creative, not necessarily the outcomes. In creative placemaking, “creative” is an adverb describing the making, not an adjective describing the place. Successful creative placemaking projects are not measured by how many new arts centers, galleries, or cultural districts are built. Rather, their success is measured in the ways artists, formal and informal arts spaces, and creative interventions have contributed toward community outcomes.
Showing posts with label Neighborhood. Show all posts
Showing posts with label Neighborhood. Show all posts
Saturday, July 18, 2015
Friday, June 5, 2015
Build a Better Block
Location: Nationwide
Website: betterblock.org
The Better Block project started in April, 2010, when a group of community organizers, neighbors, and property owners gathered together to revitalize a single commercial block in an underused neighborhood corridor.
The area was filled with vacant properties, wide streets, and few amenities for people who lived within walking distance. The group brought together all of the resources from the community and converted the block into a walkable, bikeable neighborhood destination for people of all ages complete with bike lanes, cafe seating, trees, plants, pop-up businesses, and lighting.
The project was developed to show the city how the block could be revived and improve area safety, health, and economics if ordinances that restricted small business and multi-modal infrastructure were removed. Since that time, Better Block projects have been developed throughout the World with many of the temporary infrastructure improvements and businesses made permanent.
The Better Block is an open-sourced project that is free to re-use and build upon. This site is developed to provide help for communities who wish to build their own Better Blocks complete with news, tools, and other resources anyone may need to help rapidly revitalize neighborhoods.
We’ve found it’s best to address the following four areas when developing a Better Block, which we will break down in greater depth.
Safety (Real and Perceived)–
First and foremost, if an area feels unsafe then everything breaks down. Whether it be businesses, schools, or neighborhood revitalization, the key to changing a place is addressing its perceived safety. When approaching blocks, we ask the questions:
Does it feel safe to cross the street?
Does it feel safe to stand on the sidewalk?
Does the area have hidden corners or large obstacles that reduce open sightlines?
Do the businesses have bars on the windows or opaque windows?
Our goal is to address each of these questions and find ways to improve the area rapidly.
Shared Access – The next goal we focus on is looking at ways to bring more people into the area by various modes of transportation.
We ask the questions:
Do pedestrians have easy and clear access to the area?
Do bicycles feel welcome in the area?
Is the area easily accessible from neighborhoods?
Are there way finding signs that direct people into and out of the area?
Are there amenities that allow people to linger in the space (seating, tables, etc.)?
Stay Power – How can we encourage people to visit the area and have them linger, and invite their friends?
Are there food options on the block?
Are there places to eat outdoors?
Are there maps, bulletin boards, games, or other amenities that encourage people to linger?
Is the identity of the area prominent (arts district, cultural district, historic area)?
Lastly, we look at amenities that create invitations for children, seniors, and dog owners on a block. These groups tend to be indicators of a healthy environment that feels welcoming and attracts other people.
Website: betterblock.org
The Better Block project started in April, 2010, when a group of community organizers, neighbors, and property owners gathered together to revitalize a single commercial block in an underused neighborhood corridor.
The area was filled with vacant properties, wide streets, and few amenities for people who lived within walking distance. The group brought together all of the resources from the community and converted the block into a walkable, bikeable neighborhood destination for people of all ages complete with bike lanes, cafe seating, trees, plants, pop-up businesses, and lighting.
The project was developed to show the city how the block could be revived and improve area safety, health, and economics if ordinances that restricted small business and multi-modal infrastructure were removed. Since that time, Better Block projects have been developed throughout the World with many of the temporary infrastructure improvements and businesses made permanent.
The Better Block is an open-sourced project that is free to re-use and build upon. This site is developed to provide help for communities who wish to build their own Better Blocks complete with news, tools, and other resources anyone may need to help rapidly revitalize neighborhoods.
We’ve found it’s best to address the following four areas when developing a Better Block, which we will break down in greater depth.
Safety (Real and Perceived)–
First and foremost, if an area feels unsafe then everything breaks down. Whether it be businesses, schools, or neighborhood revitalization, the key to changing a place is addressing its perceived safety. When approaching blocks, we ask the questions:
Does it feel safe to cross the street?
Does it feel safe to stand on the sidewalk?
Does the area have hidden corners or large obstacles that reduce open sightlines?
Do the businesses have bars on the windows or opaque windows?
Our goal is to address each of these questions and find ways to improve the area rapidly.
Shared Access – The next goal we focus on is looking at ways to bring more people into the area by various modes of transportation.
We ask the questions:
Do pedestrians have easy and clear access to the area?
Do bicycles feel welcome in the area?
Is the area easily accessible from neighborhoods?
Are there way finding signs that direct people into and out of the area?
Are there amenities that allow people to linger in the space (seating, tables, etc.)?
Stay Power – How can we encourage people to visit the area and have them linger, and invite their friends?
Are there food options on the block?
Are there places to eat outdoors?
Are there maps, bulletin boards, games, or other amenities that encourage people to linger?
Is the identity of the area prominent (arts district, cultural district, historic area)?
Lastly, we look at amenities that create invitations for children, seniors, and dog owners on a block. These groups tend to be indicators of a healthy environment that feels welcoming and attracts other people.
Friday, April 25, 2014
Treme4Treme
Location: New Orleans, LA
Website: www.treme4treme.org
Character of Place as Social Capital in the Revitalization of the Iberville Housing Project and the Surrounding Tremé/Lafitte Neighborhood in New Orleans began to circulate, residents of the neighborhood who are active in civic life began responding positively to it.
Many found it to be an accurate picture of the community, and some found it highly congruent with their own ongoing work and with what they themselves have previously affirmed about the place. The report was described as having “rediscovered” things the community has previously and repeatedly discovered about itself.
+ -A group, Treme4Treme, representing several area non-profits, residents, business, and community leaders with a long history of working in social services, community and economic development, and culture in the Tremé neighborhood came together to design the future and developed a strategic plan for how to create that future.
Tremé for Tremé reached out widely within the community to develop a broadly based vision and process.
What was developed is fundamentally different from providing input into a planning process, or providing community engagement. Tremé for Tremé stepped forward to take the primary role in creating their own future.
The first words of the Choice Neighborhood Initiative application for New Orleans were that “Nearly six years ago, when the city had been inundated with flood waters, some national leaders pronounced that New Orleans was dead and suggested not to rebuild.
This once great city refused to accept that pronouncement…” It is widely recognized that it was the deep resilience of New Orleans, rising from the love of its people for the place and its culture, that produced a bottom-up process of renewal.
Tremé for Tremé and the residents of this neighborhood is ready to take its place and accept its responsibility in continuing that renewal.
Most important, the people and institutions of this neighborhood have taken responsibility for planning their own future, and creating that future. Rather than merely providing input concerning their needs and desires, or stepping forward to play a role in initiatives designed by others. Tremé for Tremé is prepared to play a primary role and ask for partnerships to complement its efforts.
The goal is to create a state that we call resilient autonomy, in which a community is self-directed and capable of constantly renewing itself in a healthy, sustainable way.
We believe the path to resilient autonomy is through neighborhood-led, asset-based and place-based community and economic development.
Website: www.treme4treme.org
Character of Place as Social Capital in the Revitalization of the Iberville Housing Project and the Surrounding Tremé/Lafitte Neighborhood in New Orleans began to circulate, residents of the neighborhood who are active in civic life began responding positively to it.
Many found it to be an accurate picture of the community, and some found it highly congruent with their own ongoing work and with what they themselves have previously affirmed about the place. The report was described as having “rediscovered” things the community has previously and repeatedly discovered about itself.
+ -A group, Treme4Treme, representing several area non-profits, residents, business, and community leaders with a long history of working in social services, community and economic development, and culture in the Tremé neighborhood came together to design the future and developed a strategic plan for how to create that future.
Tremé for Tremé reached out widely within the community to develop a broadly based vision and process.
What was developed is fundamentally different from providing input into a planning process, or providing community engagement. Tremé for Tremé stepped forward to take the primary role in creating their own future.
The first words of the Choice Neighborhood Initiative application for New Orleans were that “Nearly six years ago, when the city had been inundated with flood waters, some national leaders pronounced that New Orleans was dead and suggested not to rebuild.
This once great city refused to accept that pronouncement…” It is widely recognized that it was the deep resilience of New Orleans, rising from the love of its people for the place and its culture, that produced a bottom-up process of renewal.
Tremé for Tremé and the residents of this neighborhood is ready to take its place and accept its responsibility in continuing that renewal.
Most important, the people and institutions of this neighborhood have taken responsibility for planning their own future, and creating that future. Rather than merely providing input concerning their needs and desires, or stepping forward to play a role in initiatives designed by others. Tremé for Tremé is prepared to play a primary role and ask for partnerships to complement its efforts.
The goal is to create a state that we call resilient autonomy, in which a community is self-directed and capable of constantly renewing itself in a healthy, sustainable way.
We believe the path to resilient autonomy is through neighborhood-led, asset-based and place-based community and economic development.
Saturday, April 12, 2014
Pivot Legal Society
Location: Vancouver, BC
Website: www.pivotlegal.org
In the fall of 2000, John Richardson listened to a man tell a story about the Downtown Eastside. The man described being pushed and knocked to the ground by a cop on East Hastings Street. Police harassment had become so commonplace that residents no longer felt like they had any rights under the law. Justice was out of reach for many in this impoverished neighborhood.
After hearing other residents repeat similar stories, John – a recent law school graduate – could not ignore what was happening to people in this twelve-block stretch of Vancouver. As an environmental advocate committed to using the law to affect change, John realized that people living in the Downtown Eastside needed legal tools to tackle the problems they faced on a daily basis.
Over the next few months John attended meetings where residents openly disclosed their accounts of police abuse and the impacts of a decade of provincial and federal cuts to social services and housing programs. Recognizing the power of people’s lived experience and shocked by the rights abuses, John connected with neighbourhood residents, members of the legal community, and local activists – including VANDU founder Ann Livingston. Together they prepared to act.
The following spring Pivot Legal Society was born. John explains, “the concept of Pivot came to me fully clothed— name, concept, everything.” The pivot point which allows maximum force to be exerted on a given structure made perfect sense as a symbol.
By making the most tangible violations of human rights the focus of our efforts, Pivot could create the kind of force needed to carry out legal campaigns around policing, housing, and sex work that would result in meaningful positive change for people living in poverty.
Since then, Pivot has exerted this force through legal challenges, legal education campaigns, public engagement, and innovative projects that highlight the struggles, hopes, and insights of people living on the margins of society.
The success of the organization can be attributed to an unflinching passion for justice, the support of thousands of people, and strong partnerships in the downtown eastside and beyond. With compassion, force, and resilience, this tiny staff and an incredible body of volunteers and supporters allows Pivot to function as a punchy vehicle for social and systemic change.
Website: www.pivotlegal.org
In the fall of 2000, John Richardson listened to a man tell a story about the Downtown Eastside. The man described being pushed and knocked to the ground by a cop on East Hastings Street. Police harassment had become so commonplace that residents no longer felt like they had any rights under the law. Justice was out of reach for many in this impoverished neighborhood.
After hearing other residents repeat similar stories, John – a recent law school graduate – could not ignore what was happening to people in this twelve-block stretch of Vancouver. As an environmental advocate committed to using the law to affect change, John realized that people living in the Downtown Eastside needed legal tools to tackle the problems they faced on a daily basis.
Over the next few months John attended meetings where residents openly disclosed their accounts of police abuse and the impacts of a decade of provincial and federal cuts to social services and housing programs. Recognizing the power of people’s lived experience and shocked by the rights abuses, John connected with neighbourhood residents, members of the legal community, and local activists – including VANDU founder Ann Livingston. Together they prepared to act.
The following spring Pivot Legal Society was born. John explains, “the concept of Pivot came to me fully clothed— name, concept, everything.” The pivot point which allows maximum force to be exerted on a given structure made perfect sense as a symbol.
By making the most tangible violations of human rights the focus of our efforts, Pivot could create the kind of force needed to carry out legal campaigns around policing, housing, and sex work that would result in meaningful positive change for people living in poverty.
Since then, Pivot has exerted this force through legal challenges, legal education campaigns, public engagement, and innovative projects that highlight the struggles, hopes, and insights of people living on the margins of society.
The success of the organization can be attributed to an unflinching passion for justice, the support of thousands of people, and strong partnerships in the downtown eastside and beyond. With compassion, force, and resilience, this tiny staff and an incredible body of volunteers and supporters allows Pivot to function as a punchy vehicle for social and systemic change.
Friday, April 11, 2014
Neighborhood Development Foundation
Location: New Orleans, LA
Website: www.ndf-neworleans.org
Neighborhood Development Foundation (NDF) is one of New Orleans’ greatest success stories and the key to a rewarding and productive life for many low and moderate-income families.
Building assets over a lifetime that will enable you to leave an inheritance to your children is a dream for many working families and a dream that the Neighborhood Development Foundation (NDF) has helped to make a reality for thousands of families throughout the greater New Orleans area since 1986.
NDF was founded on the beliefs that decent affordable housing is essential to the physical and emotional health, productivity and self-esteem of individuals and that homeownership has a significant effect on children’s success. Studies show that the positive behavioral characteristics required of homeowners are passed on to their children. These positive outcomes include: better health; fewer behavioral problems; greater achievement in math and reading; lower high school dropout rates; fewer teen births; more years of schooling by age 25; and an increase in high school graduation rates. And in the community, homeownership builds and stabilizes neighborhoods.
For over 25 years, NDF has provided knowledge, education, and advocacy that make owning and maintaining a home affordable. This education is something we can all benefit from. It’s fiscal responsibility 101 and it results in lifetime renters becoming homeowners, landlords, developers, and investors in our community.
The Mission of the Neighborhood Development Foundation is to educate and assist low and moderate-income families to build assets through homeownership.
Website: www.ndf-neworleans.org
Neighborhood Development Foundation (NDF) is one of New Orleans’ greatest success stories and the key to a rewarding and productive life for many low and moderate-income families.
Building assets over a lifetime that will enable you to leave an inheritance to your children is a dream for many working families and a dream that the Neighborhood Development Foundation (NDF) has helped to make a reality for thousands of families throughout the greater New Orleans area since 1986.
NDF was founded on the beliefs that decent affordable housing is essential to the physical and emotional health, productivity and self-esteem of individuals and that homeownership has a significant effect on children’s success. Studies show that the positive behavioral characteristics required of homeowners are passed on to their children. These positive outcomes include: better health; fewer behavioral problems; greater achievement in math and reading; lower high school dropout rates; fewer teen births; more years of schooling by age 25; and an increase in high school graduation rates. And in the community, homeownership builds and stabilizes neighborhoods.
For over 25 years, NDF has provided knowledge, education, and advocacy that make owning and maintaining a home affordable. This education is something we can all benefit from. It’s fiscal responsibility 101 and it results in lifetime renters becoming homeowners, landlords, developers, and investors in our community.
The Mission of the Neighborhood Development Foundation is to educate and assist low and moderate-income families to build assets through homeownership.
Friday, December 20, 2013
Baltimore Slumlord Watch
Location: Baltimore, MD
Website: www.slumlordwatch.wordpress.com
Baltimore Slumlord Watch was created in January of 2009, as a way for city residents to discuss and share information on Baltimore’s many slumlords.
Started by a resident who was tired of watching out of town “investors” and others destroy neighborhoods as a result of their negligence, we hope this blog will serve as a valuable service to other city residents who are sick of the problems slumlords cause in our communities.
Please note, we do not work for realtors, developers, or property investors, and have no financial interest in property in Baltimore City.
Website: www.slumlordwatch.wordpress.com
Baltimore Slumlord Watch was created in January of 2009, as a way for city residents to discuss and share information on Baltimore’s many slumlords.
Started by a resident who was tired of watching out of town “investors” and others destroy neighborhoods as a result of their negligence, we hope this blog will serve as a valuable service to other city residents who are sick of the problems slumlords cause in our communities.
Please note, we do not work for realtors, developers, or property investors, and have no financial interest in property in Baltimore City.
Saturday, November 16, 2013
Grow Community
Location: Bainbridge Island, WA
Website: www.growbainbridge.com
As we looked around ourselves, and began to think, really think, about the way we live and the way we want to live, we found that there are many things still to be done.
Wouldn’t it be nice to have solar panels on the roof? Wouldn’t it be great if the kids could safely walk to school? And the library? And the ice cream store? What if we had more time to garden, and wouldn’t it be nice to know the neighbors?
So we began to ask our friends, if you could describe the perfect neighborhood, what would it look like? And we found so many answers. So we set out to create a new kind of place to live. For ourselves and for others.
Over the last year, we have created a vision of a connected urban community, where people of all generations and a diversity of economic means can live mindful of their impact on the planet, in a neighborhood where environmental, economic and social sustainability are equally valued and where all people can focus on creating abundance, in their relationships to others, to nature and to the community.
But our vision is not complete. There is still so much to do, so much to learn and so much possibility. Each day we create more ideas and challenge ourselves to do better.
We’ve figured out how to provide net-zero energy homes. But what about transportation? We think we’ve figured that out too, but we’ll learn more as we test out our plans. How can we most effectively reduce water use? Increase local food consumption? What kind of playgrounds will our children like best?
How shall we design the community center so it really does become that welcoming ‘third place’ where neighbors gather and connect?
Please join us in helping to shape this community, with your ideas, your vision, your enthusiasm. It takes a village. Let’s grow one.
Website: www.growbainbridge.com
As we looked around ourselves, and began to think, really think, about the way we live and the way we want to live, we found that there are many things still to be done.
Wouldn’t it be nice to have solar panels on the roof? Wouldn’t it be great if the kids could safely walk to school? And the library? And the ice cream store? What if we had more time to garden, and wouldn’t it be nice to know the neighbors?
So we began to ask our friends, if you could describe the perfect neighborhood, what would it look like? And we found so many answers. So we set out to create a new kind of place to live. For ourselves and for others.
Over the last year, we have created a vision of a connected urban community, where people of all generations and a diversity of economic means can live mindful of their impact on the planet, in a neighborhood where environmental, economic and social sustainability are equally valued and where all people can focus on creating abundance, in their relationships to others, to nature and to the community.
But our vision is not complete. There is still so much to do, so much to learn and so much possibility. Each day we create more ideas and challenge ourselves to do better.
We’ve figured out how to provide net-zero energy homes. But what about transportation? We think we’ve figured that out too, but we’ll learn more as we test out our plans. How can we most effectively reduce water use? Increase local food consumption? What kind of playgrounds will our children like best?
How shall we design the community center so it really does become that welcoming ‘third place’ where neighbors gather and connect?
Please join us in helping to shape this community, with your ideas, your vision, your enthusiasm. It takes a village. Let’s grow one.
Saturday, September 28, 2013
WALK [YOUR CITY]
Location: Nationwide
Website: www.walkyourcity.org
In 1960, 1:4 citizens took one useful, 10 minute walk each day. Now that number is 1:10.
More people live in cities now than ever before. What makes a place more or less walkable is determined by the choices you have to walk somewhere useful as part of your everyday routine. Walkability is becoming a major factor in how we, both citizens and cities, are shaping our future communities.
Take ownership of your streets, improve or share the walkability of your street.
Walk [Your City] empowers you to promote walkability in your community by creating, producing and installing pedestrian wayfinding signage. Signage that is consistent communication and organization of navigational cues from our surrounding environment (i.e. directional signage to get aroundBuild a sign!
Walking builds the local sense of community and helps citizens become more engaged.
Our platform helps community groups, schools and non-profits become neighborhood advocates by making it easy for you to promote walkability.
Interested community group?
Contact us to get more info or go ahead and build a sign.
Website: www.walkyourcity.org
In 1960, 1:4 citizens took one useful, 10 minute walk each day. Now that number is 1:10.
More people live in cities now than ever before. What makes a place more or less walkable is determined by the choices you have to walk somewhere useful as part of your everyday routine. Walkability is becoming a major factor in how we, both citizens and cities, are shaping our future communities.
Take ownership of your streets, improve or share the walkability of your street.
Walk [Your City] empowers you to promote walkability in your community by creating, producing and installing pedestrian wayfinding signage. Signage that is consistent communication and organization of navigational cues from our surrounding environment (i.e. directional signage to get aroundBuild a sign!
Walking builds the local sense of community and helps citizens become more engaged.
Our platform helps community groups, schools and non-profits become neighborhood advocates by making it easy for you to promote walkability.
Interested community group?
Contact us to get more info or go ahead and build a sign.
Tuesday, September 24, 2013
Valencia Corridor Merchants Association
Location: San Francisco, CA
Website: www.keepvalencialocal.com
The VCMA is a member–operated neighborhood association focused on maintaining the great qualities of the Valencia Corridor.
Our mission is to cultivate and beautify the corridor for the benefit of visitors, residents and merchants. Additionally, we endeavor to combine our voices and views toward the goal of maintaining the unique identity and independent spirit of the neighborhood.
Website: www.keepvalencialocal.com
The VCMA is a member–operated neighborhood association focused on maintaining the great qualities of the Valencia Corridor.
Our mission is to cultivate and beautify the corridor for the benefit of visitors, residents and merchants. Additionally, we endeavor to combine our voices and views toward the goal of maintaining the unique identity and independent spirit of the neighborhood.
Sunday, September 22, 2013
Over The Rhine Foundation
Location: Cinncinnati, OH
Website: www.otrfoundation.org
The Over-the-Rhine Foundation is a non-profit organization, founded in 1992, to help preserve and revitalize Cincinnati’s most historic, diverse and architecturally rich community.
The Over-the-Rhine Foundation works to preserve, protect and celebrate Over-the-Rhine, the historic heart of Cincinnati, by encouraging community growth, sound planning and responsible, sustainable development.
Over-the-Rhine will become an economic and cultural asset for the city of Cincinnati; a revitalized, safe, diverse, beautiful and vibrant community in which to live, work and play.
The Over-the-Rhine Foundation (OTRF) has been working to improve this historically significant neighborhood since 1992. We believe that Over-the-Rhine is more than simply a community worth preserving. It is the heart of Cincinnati and the key to a better future, not only for OTR - but for the region as well.
The OTRF embraces our mission to preserve, protect and celebrate Over-the-Rhine by creating an ecologically sustainable, urban community. We work in collaboration with like-minded organizations, dedicated to re-inventing Over-the Rhine as an exemplary, diverse neighborhood in which to live, work and play.
Website: www.otrfoundation.org
The Over-the-Rhine Foundation is a non-profit organization, founded in 1992, to help preserve and revitalize Cincinnati’s most historic, diverse and architecturally rich community.
The Over-the-Rhine Foundation works to preserve, protect and celebrate Over-the-Rhine, the historic heart of Cincinnati, by encouraging community growth, sound planning and responsible, sustainable development.
Over-the-Rhine will become an economic and cultural asset for the city of Cincinnati; a revitalized, safe, diverse, beautiful and vibrant community in which to live, work and play.
The Over-the-Rhine Foundation (OTRF) has been working to improve this historically significant neighborhood since 1992. We believe that Over-the-Rhine is more than simply a community worth preserving. It is the heart of Cincinnati and the key to a better future, not only for OTR - but for the region as well.
The OTRF embraces our mission to preserve, protect and celebrate Over-the-Rhine by creating an ecologically sustainable, urban community. We work in collaboration with like-minded organizations, dedicated to re-inventing Over-the Rhine as an exemplary, diverse neighborhood in which to live, work and play.
Tuesday, August 20, 2013
West Side Rag
Location: New York, NY
Website: www.westsiderag.com
First of all, Welcome to the Rag! Thanks for coming by, and I hope you stay awhile and check out what we have to offer. The Rag is an online newspaper/blog that covers the Upper West Side of Manhattan, and it’s written by Upper West Siders. We cover real estate, crime, store openings and closings, the parks and many other topics, and we publish colorful columns about the neighborhood.
As far as geography goes, the Upper West Side stretches roughly from 59th to 110th Streets and from Central Park to the Hudson River. But we’re flexible: if something is going on at St. John the Divine on 112th, we’ll cover it. If Keanu Reeves strips down to his underwear on 58th Street and 10th Avenue and starts to dance, we won’t let geographic boundaries get in our way. Oh yes, we will tell that story.
The Rag started publishing in 2011 and in its first year was named one of the four best neighborhood blogs in the city by the Village Voice.
Life Style Weekly called the site “The best insider source about Manhattan’s Upper West Side.”>br>
BrickUnderground said the Rag is “wry, addictive, up-to-the-minute.”
Much of what you’ll find on the web is rehashed and repackaged news, or some version of the “official story”. What do top officials have to say about this or that official event? We care what those officials say, but what we’re really after is the unofficial stories, the ones we haven’t heard before.
What food do Upper West Siders buy when natural disasters approach? Why is crime up in the 24th precinct? Are new real estate developments making the neighborhood more appealing or simply more unaffordable?
Who is the local Sticker Bandit? What’s really “lobster salad”?
In short, what is it like to live on the Upper West Side today? What gets people excited, what gets them angry, what makes them laugh?
We will not be afraid to write about the big issues, but we also won’t shy away from totally trivial topics. In our morning bulletin, we also aggregate news and opinion about the neighborhood from other outlets so you can know what’s going on. And every week, we let you know about the best events in the neighborhood.
But what we really love is to hear from people who live here (there are more than 200,000 of you and we have a very large inbox). That’s where we get our best stories and ideas.
Please, please, please send us tips, gripes, stories, and ideas. If you witness a crime or a crash let us know. If you see a new store opening or an old store closing, send us a picture. If you had an awful/wonderful experience at a store/park/restaurant… you get the picture. Some people have already signed on as columnists and they’re the best in the city, if not the world!), and we would like to add new columnists. If you become a columnist, you can write or take pictures or make videos about whatever you want, so long as they are about the neighborhood. If you’re interested, send an email to: info at westsiderag dot com. Also, be sure to follow us on twitter and facebook.>br>
And sign up for our email newsletter (just send an email to us at news at westsiderag dot com with your email address).
Website: www.westsiderag.com
First of all, Welcome to the Rag! Thanks for coming by, and I hope you stay awhile and check out what we have to offer. The Rag is an online newspaper/blog that covers the Upper West Side of Manhattan, and it’s written by Upper West Siders. We cover real estate, crime, store openings and closings, the parks and many other topics, and we publish colorful columns about the neighborhood.
As far as geography goes, the Upper West Side stretches roughly from 59th to 110th Streets and from Central Park to the Hudson River. But we’re flexible: if something is going on at St. John the Divine on 112th, we’ll cover it. If Keanu Reeves strips down to his underwear on 58th Street and 10th Avenue and starts to dance, we won’t let geographic boundaries get in our way. Oh yes, we will tell that story.
The Rag started publishing in 2011 and in its first year was named one of the four best neighborhood blogs in the city by the Village Voice.
Life Style Weekly called the site “The best insider source about Manhattan’s Upper West Side.”>br>
BrickUnderground said the Rag is “wry, addictive, up-to-the-minute.”
Much of what you’ll find on the web is rehashed and repackaged news, or some version of the “official story”. What do top officials have to say about this or that official event? We care what those officials say, but what we’re really after is the unofficial stories, the ones we haven’t heard before.
What food do Upper West Siders buy when natural disasters approach? Why is crime up in the 24th precinct? Are new real estate developments making the neighborhood more appealing or simply more unaffordable?
Who is the local Sticker Bandit? What’s really “lobster salad”?
In short, what is it like to live on the Upper West Side today? What gets people excited, what gets them angry, what makes them laugh?
We will not be afraid to write about the big issues, but we also won’t shy away from totally trivial topics. In our morning bulletin, we also aggregate news and opinion about the neighborhood from other outlets so you can know what’s going on. And every week, we let you know about the best events in the neighborhood.
But what we really love is to hear from people who live here (there are more than 200,000 of you and we have a very large inbox). That’s where we get our best stories and ideas.
Please, please, please send us tips, gripes, stories, and ideas. If you witness a crime or a crash let us know. If you see a new store opening or an old store closing, send us a picture. If you had an awful/wonderful experience at a store/park/restaurant… you get the picture. Some people have already signed on as columnists and they’re the best in the city, if not the world!), and we would like to add new columnists. If you become a columnist, you can write or take pictures or make videos about whatever you want, so long as they are about the neighborhood. If you’re interested, send an email to: info at westsiderag dot com. Also, be sure to follow us on twitter and facebook.>br>
And sign up for our email newsletter (just send an email to us at news at westsiderag dot com with your email address).
Friday, August 16, 2013
Nextdoor
Location: Nationwide
Website: www.willametteinitiative.org
When neighbors start talking, good things happen.
Build a stronger neighborhood with your neighbors to stay informed and share useful local information.
Look out for each other and send updates to keep the neighborhood safe.
Find a great babysitter or trusty dentist. Borrow a ladder or sell that old bookcase.
A private environment designed just for you and your neighbors.
Only real neighbors allowed:
Each member must verify their address to join so you know you can trust who you are sharing with.
Your personal information is safe;
We will never share your information with third parties.
>br> Read our commitment to privacy.
Over 17,000 neighborhoods are building stronger and safer places to call home.
Website: www.willametteinitiative.org
When neighbors start talking, good things happen.
Build a stronger neighborhood with your neighbors to stay informed and share useful local information.
Look out for each other and send updates to keep the neighborhood safe.
Find a great babysitter or trusty dentist. Borrow a ladder or sell that old bookcase.
A private environment designed just for you and your neighbors.
Only real neighbors allowed:
Each member must verify their address to join so you know you can trust who you are sharing with.
Your personal information is safe;
We will never share your information with third parties.
>br> Read our commitment to privacy.
Over 17,000 neighborhoods are building stronger and safer places to call home.
Thursday, August 15, 2013
CommUniverCity San Jose
Location: San Jose, CA
Wensite: www.cucsj.org
CommUniverCity San José believes that everyone deserves to live in vibrant, healthy, and engaged communities. Every day we work with residents to develop great neighborhoods, because no one’s opportunities in life should be limited by the place where they live.
We do this by engaging residents and students in service-learning projects that accomplish neighborhood-driven goals through a cross-sector partnership with the City of San José, the residents of Central San José neighborhoods, and San José State University students.
Wensite: www.cucsj.org
CommUniverCity San José believes that everyone deserves to live in vibrant, healthy, and engaged communities. Every day we work with residents to develop great neighborhoods, because no one’s opportunities in life should be limited by the place where they live.
We do this by engaging residents and students in service-learning projects that accomplish neighborhood-driven goals through a cross-sector partnership with the City of San José, the residents of Central San José neighborhoods, and San José State University students.
Tuesday, July 30, 2013
French Quarter Citizens
Location: New Orleans, LA
Website: www.frenchquartercitizens.org
FQC was founded in 1994 to strengthen the quality of residential life in the French Quarter. Not surprisingly, we focus much of our effort in this area. FQC is heavily engaged in the current efforts to write a new ordinance to control noise; we insist on simple, straightforward, and easily enforced rules that protect and promote the music — not noise — for which New Orleans is justly famous. Cleanliness and sanitation has declined recently.
FQC is helping lead an effort to identify and propose solutions to the challenges of keeping the French Quarter clean, having the trash collected on time, and reducing the number of trash containers littering our sidewalks. Other quality of life issues occupying our efforts and members include supporting the eradication of graffiti, promoting neighborhood consensus making Cabrini Park better for dogs and humans, strengthening controls on filming in the Quarter, making changes in parking regulations to favor residents, and getting the city to crack down on illegal short-term rentals that undermine the Quarter’s residential values.
Website: www.frenchquartercitizens.org
FQC was founded in 1994 to strengthen the quality of residential life in the French Quarter. Not surprisingly, we focus much of our effort in this area. FQC is heavily engaged in the current efforts to write a new ordinance to control noise; we insist on simple, straightforward, and easily enforced rules that protect and promote the music — not noise — for which New Orleans is justly famous. Cleanliness and sanitation has declined recently.
FQC is helping lead an effort to identify and propose solutions to the challenges of keeping the French Quarter clean, having the trash collected on time, and reducing the number of trash containers littering our sidewalks. Other quality of life issues occupying our efforts and members include supporting the eradication of graffiti, promoting neighborhood consensus making Cabrini Park better for dogs and humans, strengthening controls on filming in the Quarter, making changes in parking regulations to favor residents, and getting the city to crack down on illegal short-term rentals that undermine the Quarter’s residential values.
Sunday, July 28, 2013
Elev8
Location: National
Website: www.elev8kids.org
Elev8 brings together schools, families and other community partners in low-income areas — to ensure that students succeed in middle school and beyond. Part of a growing movement of community schools around the country,
Website: www.elev8kids.org
Elev8 brings together schools, families and other community partners in low-income areas — to ensure that students succeed in middle school and beyond. Part of a growing movement of community schools around the country,
Elev8:
- Extends learning opportunities for students beyond the classroom and traditional school year,
- Provides high-quality school-based health services to children and their families,
- Encourages parents to be actively involved in their children's education, and
- Offers family supports and resources designed to promote economic stability, good health and continuing education.
Individually, these components play a pivotal role in children's lives. Elev8 thoughtfully integrates them because we believe an approach that considers the whole child and their family will have the greatest impact.
We focus on the middle-grade-students because those years are a time of critical transition for young people. Elev8 aims to ensure that by the time students finish 8th grade, they are prepared for high school and go on to graduate.
Elev8 looks different in every participating school, as community members identify local needs and create solutions. Students and families become advocates for improving education and expanding access to critical resources in their community.
- Extends learning opportunities for students beyond the classroom and traditional school year,
- Provides high-quality school-based health services to children and their families,
- Encourages parents to be actively involved in their children's education, and
- Offers family supports and resources designed to promote economic stability, good health and continuing education.
Individually, these components play a pivotal role in children's lives. Elev8 thoughtfully integrates them because we believe an approach that considers the whole child and their family will have the greatest impact.
We focus on the middle-grade-students because those years are a time of critical transition for young people. Elev8 aims to ensure that by the time students finish 8th grade, they are prepared for high school and go on to graduate.
Elev8 looks different in every participating school, as community members identify local needs and create solutions. Students and families become advocates for improving education and expanding access to critical resources in their community.
PolicyLink / Equitable Development
Location: Nationwide
Website: www.policylink.org/site/c.lkIXLbMNJrE/b.5136575/k.39A1/Equitable_Development_Toolkit.htm
Equitable development is an approach to creating healthy, vibrant, communities of opportunity. Equitable outcomes come about when smart, intentional strategies are put in place to ensure that low-income communities and communities of color participate in and benefit from decisions that shape their neighborhoods and regions.
Affordable Housing:
Strong, vibrant neighborhoods provide a diverse mix of housing options. Use these strategies to ensure that existing residents can stay as neighborhood markets revive and to stabilize distressed neighborhoods.
Ensure access to good jobs and opportunities to save and build assets to increase community health and stability.
Where you live, work, and play has a major impact on health — and living in a distressed neighborhood contributes to health inequities. Implement these tools to reduce environmental risk and build health-promoting neighborhoods.
Use land use planning and economic development tools to:
- promote thriving neighborhood commercial districts that meet residents' needs for shops and services; ensure safe places to play, recreate and socialize, and
- promote environmental sustainability.
Website: www.policylink.org/site/c.lkIXLbMNJrE/b.5136575/k.39A1/Equitable_Development_Toolkit.htm
Equitable development is an approach to creating healthy, vibrant, communities of opportunity. Equitable outcomes come about when smart, intentional strategies are put in place to ensure that low-income communities and communities of color participate in and benefit from decisions that shape their neighborhoods and regions.
Affordable Housing:
Strong, vibrant neighborhoods provide a diverse mix of housing options. Use these strategies to ensure that existing residents can stay as neighborhood markets revive and to stabilize distressed neighborhoods.
Ensure access to good jobs and opportunities to save and build assets to increase community health and stability.
Where you live, work, and play has a major impact on health — and living in a distressed neighborhood contributes to health inequities. Implement these tools to reduce environmental risk and build health-promoting neighborhoods.
Use land use planning and economic development tools to:
- promote thriving neighborhood commercial districts that meet residents' needs for shops and services; ensure safe places to play, recreate and socialize, and
- promote environmental sustainability.
Wednesday, July 24, 2013
Fund 4 Democratic Communities
Location: Southeast States
Website: www.f4dc.org
F4DC was founded in 2007 and since then has made over $1 million in grants to support grassroots democratic organizing efforts, primarily focused in the Southeast, North Carolina and Greensboro.
We operate with a strong belief in the power of ordinary people in neighborhoods, workplaces and other communities to understand and solve their own problems when given an opportunity to put their heads together and hear the diverse voices of all involved.
The Fund for Democratic Communities (F4DC), a Greensboro, North Carolina based private foundation, supports community-based initiatives and institutions that foster authentic democracy to make communities better places to live.
F4DC makes grants to groups that engage in participatory democracy to further their social change objectives; convenes groups and individuals committed to social and economic justice through deepening democratic practice; conducts research; and and produces materials to nurture the growth of authentic democracy.
In order to build communities that are democratic, just and sustainable, we need businesses that are rooted in their place and responsive to the communities they serve. We are working with people across the Southeast growing new economies based on these principles through the development of cooperative structures.
The economic crisis sparked by the collapse of large financial institutions beginning in 2007-2008 clarified for many that the fundamentally anti-democratic nature of our economic system threatens our communities in direct, immediate and potentially catastrophic ways.
We will never achieve a truly democratic society so long as our collective wealth is unavailable to the vast majority of us. This enormous wealth should be used to develop communities that allow and encourage every human being to achieve their full potential with dignity. Our societal wealth should provide security in the knowledge that our health, safety and a reasonable quality of life are guaranteed.
Website: www.f4dc.org
F4DC was founded in 2007 and since then has made over $1 million in grants to support grassroots democratic organizing efforts, primarily focused in the Southeast, North Carolina and Greensboro.
We operate with a strong belief in the power of ordinary people in neighborhoods, workplaces and other communities to understand and solve their own problems when given an opportunity to put their heads together and hear the diverse voices of all involved.
The Fund for Democratic Communities (F4DC), a Greensboro, North Carolina based private foundation, supports community-based initiatives and institutions that foster authentic democracy to make communities better places to live.
F4DC makes grants to groups that engage in participatory democracy to further their social change objectives; convenes groups and individuals committed to social and economic justice through deepening democratic practice; conducts research; and and produces materials to nurture the growth of authentic democracy.
In order to build communities that are democratic, just and sustainable, we need businesses that are rooted in their place and responsive to the communities they serve. We are working with people across the Southeast growing new economies based on these principles through the development of cooperative structures.
The economic crisis sparked by the collapse of large financial institutions beginning in 2007-2008 clarified for many that the fundamentally anti-democratic nature of our economic system threatens our communities in direct, immediate and potentially catastrophic ways.
We will never achieve a truly democratic society so long as our collective wealth is unavailable to the vast majority of us. This enormous wealth should be used to develop communities that allow and encourage every human being to achieve their full potential with dignity. Our societal wealth should provide security in the knowledge that our health, safety and a reasonable quality of life are guaranteed.
Monday, July 22, 2013
Midtown Detroit, Inc.
Location: Detroit, MI
Website: www.midtowndetroitinc.org
Midtown Detroit, Inc. is a vital force in the success of Midtown’s revitalization; helping to promote community property.
Midtown Detroit, Inc. (MDI) is a nonprofit 501(c)(3) organization created to support and enhance community and economic development in the Midtown area through collaboration and partnerships with key stakeholders and supportive funders. MDI is the result of a collaborative merger between the University Cultural Center Association and the New Center Council, whose organizations had a similar mission and a focus on real estate development, economic development, and the preservation of the districts’ history. Both prior organizations have been responsible for a remarkable number of successful community initiatives that have encouraged new housing development, increased visitorship to area attractions, supported new and increased commercial activity, and expedited infrastructure improvements to revitalize the greater Midtown district.
MDI will continue to be a major catalyst in supporting the involvement of core neighborhood and community organizations in addressing the social and economic needs of the Midtown district. Midtown’s revitalization has been successful due to collaboration and committed participation of the area’s arts, culture, academic, medical and service institutions; corporations; government; property and business owners; community and neighborhood organizations; and partnerships with private, philanthropic and public entities. Nearly 150 member organizations and more than 300 representatives from these organizations actively participate in MDI activities through committees that have been responsible for the completion and/or ongoing operation of over 30 programs and projects in the Midtown district.
A vital force in the success of Midtown’s revitalization is MDI’s ongoing community improvement initiatives include maintaining the aesthetic value of local public spaces; providing walkable passage to area attractions and businesses; championing new construction; encouraging reinvestment; preserving our heritage through restoration and renovation of the area’s buildings and homes; and enhancing awareness and appreciation of the area through marketing and special events. These initiatives have successfully positioned the region as a sustainable urban center that is a vibrant, diverse, and desirable destination.
he area is also home to exceptional art, culture, education, and medical establishments. MDI has created appealing walkable access to these venues and area stores, which promotes increased visitorship in addition to providing easy and attractive passage for the community. These walkable greenways provide additional open green spaces and enhanced safety features creating an inviting environment and contributing to the many reasons Midtown has experienced a surge in population growth.
The increased appeal of Midtown and the corresponding rise in residency have generated a need for additional mixed-income and mixed-use residential development. The need has spurred reinvestment, new construction and renovation of existing buildings and homes, and an increase in businesses, services, and entertainment all placed in close proximity to its residents, workforce, and visitors, making the area more desirable, improving the quality of life, revitalizing the community and creating economic stability.
Midtown is home to the largest concentration of cultural, educational and medical institutions in Southeast Michigan. The Detroit Institute of Arts, Detroit Public Library, C. H. Wright Museum of African American History, Detroit Historical Museum, Wayne State University, College for Creative Studies, Detroit Medical Center, Detroit Symphony Orchestra Hall, Masonic Temple, Wayne State University Research and Technology Park (TechTown) and the Henry Ford Hospital campus are all based in the Midtown district. Midtown establishments host two million visitors annually and the area has a daytime population of fifty thousand. Midtown boasts 2 radio stations, its own symphony, 2 historic inns, 10 theaters, 7 museums, over 30 restaurants, 13 galleries, 2 radio stations, 2 hardware stores, 2 dry cleaners, an organic bakery, fresh markets, a gourmet farmers market and a multitude of other services and shopping destinations in addition to ongoing activities and events - all within 2.8 square miles, making the area one of the best walkable communities in Detroit.
Midtown is one of the fastest developing areas in Detroit with a growing residential base and many opportunities for new construction and rehabilitation as well as restoration within its many historic neighborhoods. Midtown’s largest population is comprised of persons between the ages of 25-44 in addition to a considerable number of seniors, a growing moderate-to middle-income component, and a significant concentration of low-income residents.
Midtown Detroit, Inc. (MDI) is a nonprofit planning and development organization that supports the physical maintenance and revitalization of the Midtown Detroit area, while working to enhance public awareness, appreciation and use of the district.
With the 2011 merger of the University Cultural Center Association and New Center Council, MDI assumed the initiatives and programs of an expanded geographic footprint incorporating both the Midtown Detroit and the New Center areas. Midtown Detroit is bordered by the Edsel Ford Freeway (I-94) to the north, the Fisher Freeway (I-75) to the south, the Lodge freeway (M-10) on the west, and Chrysler Freeway (I-75) on the east. The additional New Center area is just west of the intersection of Woodward Avenue and Grand Boulevard, and is approximately bounded by Virginia Park Historic District on the north, the Ford Freeway (I-94) on the south, John R on the east and the Lodge Freeway (M-10), including the Henry Ford Hospital campus on the west.
The unique character and resources of Midtown Detroit inspired the leaders of Wayne State University, the College for Creative Studies, the Detroit Institute of Arts and the Engineering Society of Detroit to form Midtown Detroit, Inc. (MID) affiliate the University Cultural Center Association (UCCA) which was created in 1976.
In 1987, after an internal review of the organization's mission, changes were implemented including Board of Directors restructuring, expanded membership, progressive dues structure, and access to greater resources to initiate new and expanded projects. In 1995, the Board of Directors developed a strategic plan that focused on the area’s growth and associated needs. Priorities that were identified include expanded parking capacity; area maintenance and beautification; area-wide directional signage; and the creation of a forum where members of the police department and public safety collaborated to ensure a safe district.
Since 2000, UCCA, an affiliate of MDI, has played a significant role in the community and economic development of the Midtown district. MDI and its affiliate, UCCA, have raised over $55 million for a variety of initiatives. While all are important, some of the most notable include the restoration and conversion of six historic homes into a boutique hotel; the Midtown Greenway; the Woodward Avenue Streetscape Enhancement project; the creation of the Sugar Hill Arts District; the construction of two community gardens; the renovation of over twenty commercial facades throughout the district, and increased security and safety via a Security Matching Grant program for property and businesses owners. In addition, the organization has also facilitated funding for over 30 residential developments resulting in over 700 new units of housing and has assisted over 20 local businesses with technical assistance and financing.
Most recently, MDI has implemented a number of new anchor institution initiatives such as “Live Midtown” and “Buy Detroit” programs. To date, over 200 employees have been approved for the Live Midtown residential incentive program and anchor institutions have begun to purchase from a number of local businesses in the areas of food, recycling, waste removal, and facilities maintenance.
MDI also developed a successful comprehensive communication and marketing campaign to increase awareness of Midtown’s numerous qualities, stimulate population growth, and attract new business to the area. The campaign advertises housing options; connects people to Midtown museums, theatres, galleries, restaurants, and retail stores; and promotes local cultural events including MDI’s two signature events – Art X Detroit and Noel Night.
In 2010, the City of Detroit was selected to participate in the Living Cities Integration Initiative, with MDI as the lead applicant. Through the Integration Initiative, Detroit is eligible for up to $22 million in grants, commercial loans and Program-Related Investments (PRIs) to support its efforts. The funding will help stabilize the Midtown area, adjacent North End neighborhood, and New Center area, through blight reduction, the productive re-use of land and buildings, and the improvement of key neighborhoods, providing access to improved educational, employment, and small business opportunities.
In early 2011, Midtown Detroit, Inc. was formally approved with the merger of UCCA and New Center Council.
The organization has expanded its staff and geographic footprint, increased its real estate investment activities and is implementing additional programs. This new footprint incorporates TechTown and the New Center area which will allow the organization to work more closely with the Henry Ford Health System, University Preparatory Schools, College for Creative Studies, TechTown, and many other anchors.
Website: www.midtowndetroitinc.org
Midtown Detroit, Inc. is a vital force in the success of Midtown’s revitalization; helping to promote community property.
Midtown Detroit, Inc. (MDI) is a nonprofit 501(c)(3) organization created to support and enhance community and economic development in the Midtown area through collaboration and partnerships with key stakeholders and supportive funders. MDI is the result of a collaborative merger between the University Cultural Center Association and the New Center Council, whose organizations had a similar mission and a focus on real estate development, economic development, and the preservation of the districts’ history. Both prior organizations have been responsible for a remarkable number of successful community initiatives that have encouraged new housing development, increased visitorship to area attractions, supported new and increased commercial activity, and expedited infrastructure improvements to revitalize the greater Midtown district.
MDI will continue to be a major catalyst in supporting the involvement of core neighborhood and community organizations in addressing the social and economic needs of the Midtown district. Midtown’s revitalization has been successful due to collaboration and committed participation of the area’s arts, culture, academic, medical and service institutions; corporations; government; property and business owners; community and neighborhood organizations; and partnerships with private, philanthropic and public entities. Nearly 150 member organizations and more than 300 representatives from these organizations actively participate in MDI activities through committees that have been responsible for the completion and/or ongoing operation of over 30 programs and projects in the Midtown district.
A vital force in the success of Midtown’s revitalization is MDI’s ongoing community improvement initiatives include maintaining the aesthetic value of local public spaces; providing walkable passage to area attractions and businesses; championing new construction; encouraging reinvestment; preserving our heritage through restoration and renovation of the area’s buildings and homes; and enhancing awareness and appreciation of the area through marketing and special events. These initiatives have successfully positioned the region as a sustainable urban center that is a vibrant, diverse, and desirable destination.
he area is also home to exceptional art, culture, education, and medical establishments. MDI has created appealing walkable access to these venues and area stores, which promotes increased visitorship in addition to providing easy and attractive passage for the community. These walkable greenways provide additional open green spaces and enhanced safety features creating an inviting environment and contributing to the many reasons Midtown has experienced a surge in population growth.
The increased appeal of Midtown and the corresponding rise in residency have generated a need for additional mixed-income and mixed-use residential development. The need has spurred reinvestment, new construction and renovation of existing buildings and homes, and an increase in businesses, services, and entertainment all placed in close proximity to its residents, workforce, and visitors, making the area more desirable, improving the quality of life, revitalizing the community and creating economic stability.
Midtown is home to the largest concentration of cultural, educational and medical institutions in Southeast Michigan. The Detroit Institute of Arts, Detroit Public Library, C. H. Wright Museum of African American History, Detroit Historical Museum, Wayne State University, College for Creative Studies, Detroit Medical Center, Detroit Symphony Orchestra Hall, Masonic Temple, Wayne State University Research and Technology Park (TechTown) and the Henry Ford Hospital campus are all based in the Midtown district. Midtown establishments host two million visitors annually and the area has a daytime population of fifty thousand. Midtown boasts 2 radio stations, its own symphony, 2 historic inns, 10 theaters, 7 museums, over 30 restaurants, 13 galleries, 2 radio stations, 2 hardware stores, 2 dry cleaners, an organic bakery, fresh markets, a gourmet farmers market and a multitude of other services and shopping destinations in addition to ongoing activities and events - all within 2.8 square miles, making the area one of the best walkable communities in Detroit.
Midtown is one of the fastest developing areas in Detroit with a growing residential base and many opportunities for new construction and rehabilitation as well as restoration within its many historic neighborhoods. Midtown’s largest population is comprised of persons between the ages of 25-44 in addition to a considerable number of seniors, a growing moderate-to middle-income component, and a significant concentration of low-income residents.
Midtown Detroit, Inc. (MDI) is a nonprofit planning and development organization that supports the physical maintenance and revitalization of the Midtown Detroit area, while working to enhance public awareness, appreciation and use of the district.
With the 2011 merger of the University Cultural Center Association and New Center Council, MDI assumed the initiatives and programs of an expanded geographic footprint incorporating both the Midtown Detroit and the New Center areas. Midtown Detroit is bordered by the Edsel Ford Freeway (I-94) to the north, the Fisher Freeway (I-75) to the south, the Lodge freeway (M-10) on the west, and Chrysler Freeway (I-75) on the east. The additional New Center area is just west of the intersection of Woodward Avenue and Grand Boulevard, and is approximately bounded by Virginia Park Historic District on the north, the Ford Freeway (I-94) on the south, John R on the east and the Lodge Freeway (M-10), including the Henry Ford Hospital campus on the west.
The unique character and resources of Midtown Detroit inspired the leaders of Wayne State University, the College for Creative Studies, the Detroit Institute of Arts and the Engineering Society of Detroit to form Midtown Detroit, Inc. (MID) affiliate the University Cultural Center Association (UCCA) which was created in 1976.
In 1987, after an internal review of the organization's mission, changes were implemented including Board of Directors restructuring, expanded membership, progressive dues structure, and access to greater resources to initiate new and expanded projects. In 1995, the Board of Directors developed a strategic plan that focused on the area’s growth and associated needs. Priorities that were identified include expanded parking capacity; area maintenance and beautification; area-wide directional signage; and the creation of a forum where members of the police department and public safety collaborated to ensure a safe district.
Since 2000, UCCA, an affiliate of MDI, has played a significant role in the community and economic development of the Midtown district. MDI and its affiliate, UCCA, have raised over $55 million for a variety of initiatives. While all are important, some of the most notable include the restoration and conversion of six historic homes into a boutique hotel; the Midtown Greenway; the Woodward Avenue Streetscape Enhancement project; the creation of the Sugar Hill Arts District; the construction of two community gardens; the renovation of over twenty commercial facades throughout the district, and increased security and safety via a Security Matching Grant program for property and businesses owners. In addition, the organization has also facilitated funding for over 30 residential developments resulting in over 700 new units of housing and has assisted over 20 local businesses with technical assistance and financing.
Most recently, MDI has implemented a number of new anchor institution initiatives such as “Live Midtown” and “Buy Detroit” programs. To date, over 200 employees have been approved for the Live Midtown residential incentive program and anchor institutions have begun to purchase from a number of local businesses in the areas of food, recycling, waste removal, and facilities maintenance.
MDI also developed a successful comprehensive communication and marketing campaign to increase awareness of Midtown’s numerous qualities, stimulate population growth, and attract new business to the area. The campaign advertises housing options; connects people to Midtown museums, theatres, galleries, restaurants, and retail stores; and promotes local cultural events including MDI’s two signature events – Art X Detroit and Noel Night.
In 2010, the City of Detroit was selected to participate in the Living Cities Integration Initiative, with MDI as the lead applicant. Through the Integration Initiative, Detroit is eligible for up to $22 million in grants, commercial loans and Program-Related Investments (PRIs) to support its efforts. The funding will help stabilize the Midtown area, adjacent North End neighborhood, and New Center area, through blight reduction, the productive re-use of land and buildings, and the improvement of key neighborhoods, providing access to improved educational, employment, and small business opportunities.
In early 2011, Midtown Detroit, Inc. was formally approved with the merger of UCCA and New Center Council.
The organization has expanded its staff and geographic footprint, increased its real estate investment activities and is implementing additional programs. This new footprint incorporates TechTown and the New Center area which will allow the organization to work more closely with the Henry Ford Health System, University Preparatory Schools, College for Creative Studies, TechTown, and many other anchors.
Tuesday, July 16, 2013
EastsiderLA
Location: Los Angeles, CA
Website: www.eastsiderla.com
The Eastsider is Jesus Sanchez, a journalist with more than 25 years of experience in newspapers and online journalism. Sanchez was born in Boyle Heights and raised in East Los Angeles and later, the west San Gabriel Valley. He has called Echo Park home for more than 20 years. Unless otherwise noted, stories, photos and other content appearing on The Eastsider were created by Sanchez.
Is this a personal blog, online newspaper or community forum?
The Eastsider is a hybrid of news, occasional opinion, observations and links to other web sites, all curated for an Eastside audience. The Eastsider also calls upon some trustworthy and talented contributors for stories, photographs and other content. The blog published its first post on July 28, 2008.
The Eastsider Forums, community message and discussion boards devoted to specific issues.
What does The Eastsider cover?
The Eastsider is most interested in his own neighborhood – Echo Park – but also strives to cover news & stories from these neighborhoods: Angeleno Heights, Atwater Village, Boyle Heights, Cypress Park, Eagle Rock, East Los Angeles, Echo Park, El Sereno, Elysian Heights, Elysian Valley, Glassell Park, Hermon, Highland Park, Historic Filipinotown, Lincoln Heights, Montecito Heights, Monterey Hills, Mt. Washington, Northeast LA, Silver Lake and Solano Canyon. Readers can click on the neighborhood names found in the middle column on the web site’s front page. There is way more neighborhood news than The Eastsider can cover on his own. Tips, story ideas and other contributions are always welcome.
Website: www.eastsiderla.com
The Eastsider is Jesus Sanchez, a journalist with more than 25 years of experience in newspapers and online journalism. Sanchez was born in Boyle Heights and raised in East Los Angeles and later, the west San Gabriel Valley. He has called Echo Park home for more than 20 years. Unless otherwise noted, stories, photos and other content appearing on The Eastsider were created by Sanchez.
Is this a personal blog, online newspaper or community forum?
The Eastsider is a hybrid of news, occasional opinion, observations and links to other web sites, all curated for an Eastside audience. The Eastsider also calls upon some trustworthy and talented contributors for stories, photographs and other content. The blog published its first post on July 28, 2008.
The Eastsider Forums, community message and discussion boards devoted to specific issues.
What does The Eastsider cover?
The Eastsider is most interested in his own neighborhood – Echo Park – but also strives to cover news & stories from these neighborhoods: Angeleno Heights, Atwater Village, Boyle Heights, Cypress Park, Eagle Rock, East Los Angeles, Echo Park, El Sereno, Elysian Heights, Elysian Valley, Glassell Park, Hermon, Highland Park, Historic Filipinotown, Lincoln Heights, Montecito Heights, Monterey Hills, Mt. Washington, Northeast LA, Silver Lake and Solano Canyon. Readers can click on the neighborhood names found in the middle column on the web site’s front page. There is way more neighborhood news than The Eastsider can cover on his own. Tips, story ideas and other contributions are always welcome.
Local Support Initiatives Corporation
Location: Nationwide
Website: www.lsic.org
Founded in late 1979, LISC is the largest community development support organization in the country.
For almost three decades, LISC has connected local organizations and community leaders with resources to revitalize neighborhoods and improve quality of life.
The LISC model assembles private and public resources and directs it to locally-defined priorities.
Our unique structure enables local organizations to access national resources and expertise and our funding partners to leverage their investment and achieve an impact that is truly remarkable.
The Local Initiatives Support Corporation (LISC) is dedicated to helping community residents transform distressed neighborhoods into healthy and sustainable communities of choice and opportunity — good places to work, do business and raise children. LISC mobilizes corporate, government and philanthropic support to provide local community development organizations with loans, grants and equity investments as well as local, statewide and national policy support technical and management assistance,
LISC is a national organization with a community focus. Our program staff are based in every city and many of the rural areas where LISC-supported community development takes shape. In collaboration with local community development groups, LISC staff help identify priorities and challenges, delivering the most appropriate support to meet local needs.
Building Sustainable Communities by achieving five goals:
- Expanding Investment in Housing and Other Real Estate
- Increasing Family Income and Wealth
- Stimulating Economic Development
- Improving Access to Quality Education
- Supporting Healthy Environments and Lifestyles
Website: www.lsic.org
Founded in late 1979, LISC is the largest community development support organization in the country.
For almost three decades, LISC has connected local organizations and community leaders with resources to revitalize neighborhoods and improve quality of life.
The LISC model assembles private and public resources and directs it to locally-defined priorities.
Our unique structure enables local organizations to access national resources and expertise and our funding partners to leverage their investment and achieve an impact that is truly remarkable.
The Local Initiatives Support Corporation (LISC) is dedicated to helping community residents transform distressed neighborhoods into healthy and sustainable communities of choice and opportunity — good places to work, do business and raise children. LISC mobilizes corporate, government and philanthropic support to provide local community development organizations with loans, grants and equity investments as well as local, statewide and national policy support technical and management assistance,
LISC is a national organization with a community focus. Our program staff are based in every city and many of the rural areas where LISC-supported community development takes shape. In collaboration with local community development groups, LISC staff help identify priorities and challenges, delivering the most appropriate support to meet local needs.
Building Sustainable Communities by achieving five goals:
- Expanding Investment in Housing and Other Real Estate
- Increasing Family Income and Wealth
- Stimulating Economic Development
- Improving Access to Quality Education
- Supporting Healthy Environments and Lifestyles
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