State and Local Reporter - 06/05/2007  (Plain Text Version)

There also are ways that universities can be catalysts of change or enhancement.  

Two reports, one recently released and one forthcoming, from the federal government illustrate how universities can serve this purpose.

 The first, a report from the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD), entitled Building Communities Through Homeownership, explores how universities can play a role in encouraging and supporting homeownership in their communities. Methods of assistance include research and technical assistance, financial literacy and homeownership education, financial assistance, academic programs and holistic approaches.

 Second, The National Building Museum, on April 26, hosted of a talk on “Smart Growth Strategies for Colleges and Universities,” which also addressed another important role that universities can play in a community.

 Each year, approximately $15 billion is spent on building on college campuses.

 Download the HUD report, Building Communities Through Homeownership, here.

The EPA’s Smart Growth information can be found here, and the report Why Smart Growth? A Primer for Colleges and Universities is due out in early July 2007.