Since January, a KU graduate architecture student has been answering the phones and following Marti Lee around to meetings and events. That would be me, Megan Painter, Intern. I’m at Southtown because I want to see how a strong urban community works.
Many professors tell their architecture students that their skills can revitalize urban areas; that architecture by itself can save the world. I’ve never quite believed this. Architects typically can’t finance projects and I doubted that a well designed building could replace the importance of human capital and other resources. I had also been uncovering foreign ideas about inviting the community into the design process. I wanted to see community building and revitalization in action and possibly uncover a role an architect could play, so I sought out people who know how to get stuff done.
My main focus at Southtown has been the Troost Community Improvement District. This has been a great way to see the fundamental work required for community revitalization and meet the die-hard people behind the ambitious vision. I’ve been exposed to the inner workings of two successful CIDs, business associations, and organized communities. I’ve heard stories and gathered insight from local knowledge. I’ve noticed the lack of twenty-somethings in community involvement. But more pragmatically, I’ve been writing newsletters, updating contact lists, watering plants, and making posters for various programs. Overall, it’s been a great learning experience that I could never have had in a classroom. Many thanks to all the people who, in their own way, make this area remarkable.