The Syracuse Urbanism Collective strives to build access to human-centered, walkable, vibrant communities and spaces for all. Their mission is to enhance the urbanism of Syracuse through physical installations and programming in public space, as well as advocacy on policy and design.
Through this work, the Collective contributes to sustainability in multiple ways. The more compact, less car-dependent communities they advocate for also use less land, energy, and resources per capita.
Their focus on public spaces includes creating urban habitats through initiatives like the Mini Meadows project. This effort transforms traditional grass lawns into attractive, sustainable plantings with a clear plan for maintenance and long-term viability. The project is volunteer-driven, with a strong emphasis on community involvement and neighborhood leadership.
The Collective also addresses environmental justice through projects such as their design recommendations for the I-81 Viaduct Project. This highway plays a critical role in regional connectivity, linking downtown Syracuse to key destinations like hospitals, institutions, and businesses on University Hill. Recognizing the highway’s influence on community character and regional vitality, the Collective views the I-81 project as an opportunity to shape a future that prioritizes community needs and sustainability. Their work highlights the importance of integrating environmental justice and thoughtful urban design into infrastructure planning. After all, “roads have the ability to shape the character of a community”.
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