Project Reviviendo used web-based mapping to inform community members about proposed zoning changes and how to get involved in revitalization efforts
Client: Lawrence Community Works and Massachusetts Institute of Technology (MIT)
Challenge: The North Common neighborhood of Lawrence, Massachusetts is the site of Project Reviviendo, one of the largest redevelopment projects in the state, focused on returning the neighborhood to economic and social vitality. The success of the project depended on the adoption of new zoning regulations in the target area. Lawrence Community Works (LCW), a local community development corporation, wanted to ensure that community members both contributed to the final design of the zoning overlay and understood the implications of the proposed changes. LCW worked with students in the Massachusetts Institute of Technology (MIT) Department of Urban Studies and Planning todevelop a website that would keep residents informed about the changes in their community.
Solution: The website was designed through a unique collaboration between LCW representatives and students participating in an urban planning and GIS course at MIT. Azavea implemented the site design, which uses interactive mapping to show the area affected by the zoning overlay and enables users to explore the city’s socio-demographic characteristics. Website visitors can create maps of Lawrence based on 2000 census data on population, income, education, and housing statistics. The site also uses a series of static maps to illustrate the history of the city, showing how things came to be the way they are today.
Outcomes: Azavea used its experience in the development of neighborhood information systems to rapidly turn around a web-based interactive mapping system to inform community members about theproposed zoning changes and encourage their participation in the revitalization efforts. LCW’s efforts to include and inform residents were commended by the Lawrence City Council when they unanimouslyapproved the zoning proposal put forth through this project.