Model Cities Sustainable Spaces Project
Summary:
Model Cities’ Sustainable Spaces (MCSS) is a unique approach to transit-oriented development, whereby public art is used as a medium to create synergy between the environmental sustainability features and culturally historic elements of a development project in Saint Paul’s Rondo and Frogtown communities. This is being demonstrated in the Model Cities Redevelopment (MCR) project, a TOD development, which will use public art to integrate the development elements of the project with a depiction of the role of African American rail workers, who historically shaped the social and economic vibrancy of the community. The project will also include a variety of "green" sustainability features that help reduce stormwater runoff and soften the streetscape along University Avenue. These elements together will help strengthen the cultural vibrancy of the community while preserving the environment.
About You
About You
First Name
Kizzy
Last Name
Downie
City
Saint Paul
County
Ramsey
Country
United States, MN
Website (if you have one)
Names of others who helped contribute to my idea
Model Cities staff, local artists and community members
How did you hear about the Forever Saint Paul Challenge?
About Your Organization (if applicable)
Organization Name (if applicable)
Model Cities of Saint Paul
Organization Website
Organization Phone
Organization Address
City
Organization Country
United States
Your idea
Title of your idea
Model Cities Sustainable Spaces Project
Give us the highlights of your idea for making Saint Paul great (2,000 characters maximum or approx. 250 words)
Model Cities’ Sustainable Spaces (MCSS) is a unique approach to transit-oriented development, whereby public art is used as a medium to create synergy between the environmental sustainability features and culturally historic elements of a development project in Saint Paul’s Rondo and Frogtown communities. This is being demonstrated in the Model Cities Redevelopment (MCR) project, a TOD development, which will use public art to integrate the development elements of the project with a depiction of the role of African American rail workers, who historically shaped the social and economic vibrancy of the community. The project will also include a variety of "green" sustainability features that help reduce stormwater runoff and soften the streetscape along University Avenue. These elements together will help strengthen the cultural vibrancy of the community while preserving the environment.
Website address (if applicable)
Innovation
What makes your idea different or unexpected? (4000 characters maximum or approx. 500 words)
The project is unique in that it will incorporate “green” features such as urban gardens, stormwater management and pocket parks, intertwined with various forms of public art such as murals,banners, plaques and small statues that highlight the history of African American Railroad workers. We would also like to include a "Reading Room" which will be located in one of the new developments and will include a collection of artifacts, pamphlets, pictures and a video graphic montage that commemorates the history and legacy of the Pullman Porters, Dining Car Waiters and other African American Railroad workers. These spaces will be accessible to the community and serve as a unique asset for the community, within the community.
Impact
This Entry is about (Issues)
How will your idea make a difference in Saint Paul? (4000 characters maximum or approx. 500 words)
Arts and cultural activity is an essential element of urban communities. However, funding is greatly needed in order to bring these elements to our community. Model Cities is also partnering with the University of Minnesota’s African American and African Studies Department and others to assist with the research and information gathering for the project. This information will be used to identify artifacts and educational materials for the Reading Room, as well as to develop curricula that teach youth about the history of the community. Model Cities is continuously seeking support and engagement from local residents to participate in various aspects of the project. So far, several residents have volunteered to participate in the videography project.
Sustainability
Why do you think people will recognize or remember your idea after it comes to life? How might it inspire others to do something similar in their community? (4000 characters maximum or approx. 500 words)
We believe the project will serve as a catalyst for other Transit Oriented Developments in Saint Paul and encourage developers to look at unique approaches to development that are culturally inviting and environmentally friendly. The Model Cities Sustainable Spaces project will also provide a number of benefits that guide revitalization within the community, as well as inspire learning. This includes creating opportunities for community engagement, professional development and service learning; promoting access to the arts by developing long-term partnerships with community-based agencies and local K-12 schools; and enhancing the quality of life of community residents by creating a distinctive destination place within the community that also serves as a community gathering place.
 | kyleandrei2013 kyleandrei2013 said: Spaces can help make a lot of test in the business. People will always look forward for something new. - YOR Health about this Competition Entry. - 2625 days ago read more > |
 | Kizzy Downie updated this Competition Entry. - 2856 days ago |
 | Kizzy Downie submitted this idea. - 2856 days ago |
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