Community Transformation through Community Transportation - Education Institutions
Marianne Geyer of Point Park Uniniversity talks about the University's Academic Village Project and the transformation that will occur as a result of the investment being made.

Community Transformation through Community Transportation - Education Institution Leads the Way

National leaders in smart growth policy are calling the Pennsylvania Community Transportation Initiative (PCTI) one of the most significant and innovative programs to advance smart growth policies and a model for creating place based investment.

First conceptualized almost six years ago through a partnership developed by 10,000 Friends of Pennsylvania, PennDOT and transportation and land use planning experts from around the Commonwealth, PCTI uses transportation resources to strategically link land use decisions with transportation infrastructure improvements. The results include communities that have improved connectivity, cleaner air as a result of reduced emissions, more transportation choices, safer streets and the ability to leverage economic investment in surrounding areas.

In short, the program creates places where people want to be.

So far, the PennDOT administered program completed two rounds of financing that totals nearly $85 million dollars in investment in Pennsylvania communities. Selection is based on a competitive process that has seen hundreds of applications from around the state.

Construction projects selected in round one in 2009 are completing the design phases and nearing construction.

Point Park University located in Downtown Pittsburgh was one of the largest recipients of PCTI funding in round one. The University’s project known as the Academic Village is an ambitious and visionary transformation of the Wood Street and Boulevard of the Allies Corridor into the focal point of the university's campus.

Marianne Geyer, Vice President for External Affairs at Point Park took a few moments to discuss the impact the project will have on the neighborhood, the role of partnerships and how PCTI was able to leverage additional investment.

Please take a moment to view the interview.