By Greg Conley:
Quite often we read blog posts and their associated comment sections about how Buffalo could be a better place if (insert logical to fantastical remark). There are so many ideas out there, but the common problem I see is that there isn't a place to truly share it with the community.
With this in mind, a question arose. Why not ask people for all of their ideas, and categorize them?
The intention of this project is to crowd source ideas about solving urban problems, and then categorize them. With the results, we may find that many people think alike on an issue. And perhaps, they should start a group to find a solution to a problem, or at least contact their local representatives.
These Grassroot movements are what save Trico, Bethlehem Steel Administration Building, and push for a better community college with Young Citizens for ECC, along with many other, more established groups.
And with so many ideas out there, I have created a simple Google Form. I want to categorize ideas from people in, around, and outside of Buffalo into one cohesive document that examines how Buffalo can be a more livable city.
The question asked is simply, "How can Buffalo be a more livable city for its residents, workers, and visitors?"
An idea does not have to be a paragraph, but maybe a simple phrase, such as "NFTA Smart Phone App like Next Bus". After writing the idea, simply categorize it, in this case by clicking "Transit" below the idea. When enough ideas have been generated, they will be organized into major categories, and accompanied by a follow up post.
I encourage you to complete the form as many times as you wish, and to share with everyone via email, Facebook, or Twitter!
In the end, the goal is to make a better Buffalo!
i've said it before and i'll say it again. ideas are fun and cheap; implementation is difficult and expensive. it's much easier to spit out 10 ideas in a blog comment stream (i'm as guilty as the next guy) than to organize the resources to make one of them happen.
when you start a website that recruits implementers, along with their time, dollars, and expertise, get back to us.
Grad, I completely understand where your pessimism is coming from. And I think my intention is to move it in a direction as you describe with implementers and seeking the talents of many to accomplish a reasonable goal.
it isn't pessimism. it is recognition that the internet breeds passivity. post 5 ideas and you get to feel like you've performed a meaningful public service. news flash: you haven't. here are some meaningful public services:
* buy a cheap house in a distressed neighborhood. fix it up and live in it.
* start a block club
* give time or money to whatever organization you think is making a positive difference
* sign people up to vote
* then go to the polls yourself
* contribute time or money to candidates you'd like to see in local government
* attend public meetings, hearings, and anything where public policy is debated or decided
* park your car and get on your bike
* pick up litter