Engaging the CMU community in identifying small-scale infrastructure improvements through a micro-grant program where CMU community members propose small projects (< $20K) to enhance daily life on campus.
In 2017, I helped to establish the CMU UpLift (UP = University Placemaking) effort to improve community and public nature of the CMU campus through experimental infrastructure proposed by the CMU students, faculty and staff. It is coordinated through the CMU Experience Task Force. Launched in 2017, we have completed two RFPs, solicited almost 100 proposals from staff, students and faculty, implemented 4 projects (with 4 more in the works) and bettered the experience on the Pittsburgh campus.
The purpose of this project is to engage the CMU community in identifying small-scale infrastructure improvements through a micro-grant program where CMU community members propose small projects (< $20K) to enhance daily life on campus. Three to five projects are selected annually based on viability, impact, need and transformative potential for the campus. Successful proposals are shepherded by a group of faculty and staff to guide implementation and engage campus participants at multiple stages and levels of engagement. Successful projects will include an evaluation component that can be used to guide future investments in space and infrastructure improvements.