Win the Race

In an era in which quality of place is a critical factor in economic development, higher education institutions are a primary driver of community development and cultivating quality of place. Colleges and universities contribute to the physical and aesthetic appeal of a community; the diversity of residents; and the arts, culture, and entertainment milieu. Higher education institutions have both tremendous opportunity and civic responsibility to participate strongly in community development and revitalization.

RECOMMENDATION

Expand the Role of Higher Education Institutions in Community Development

All higher education institutions must aggressively partner with their communities and “cool city” commissions to develop and implement strategies and programs that leverage their unique role. Prime among these are participation in local planning and development policy shaping; partnering in mixed-use developments; enhancing art, culture, and entertainment offerings; and using the physical and land assets of these institutions creatively as locales for private sector development, incubation of firms, and housing.

(Economic Benefits Work Group rec. 5)

Web Links

• 2005 Cool Cities Grants & Planning Programs Overview
• Cool Cities Toolbox