By Dan Nonte, University Relations
Contact: (336) 334-4314
Posted 12-8-08
GREENSBORO, NC – Four dozen students in UNCG’s Department of Interior Architecture are working on an early Christmas present for patrons of the Greensboro Transit Authority: a prototype bus shelter that will stand at Tate and Spring Garden streets.
The project has moved from design to construction phase, and the shelter will be formally unveiled in a ceremony at noon Friday, Dec. 12, at the installation site, adjacent to the Weatherspoon Art Museum. Reporters interested in seeing the work in progress or interviewing students should contact Dan Nonte at (336) 334-4314.
The students have dubbed their project “Seeds for Change,” a name reflecting their hope that it will not only lead to more bus shelters, but will focus attention on the bus system as a valuable, sustainable resource. “While this is only one small change, it speaks loudly,” says student Anna Will.
Gas prices have fallen dramatically since the semester began, but the economy has worsened, leaving many city residents with fewer transportation options. In addition to serving its riders, the bus system benefits the entire community by reducing the number of cars on the road. That means less traffic congestion, easier parking and, most important, cleaner air.
Following the core values of the department – authenticity, stewardship, innovation and community – the studio course for second-year students, Community by Design, is led by faculty members Patrick Lee Lucas and Suzanne Buchanan. Research by the students included riding buses, interviewing riders and attending Greensboro Transit Authority meetings to learn about community and passenger needs.
Each student submitted a design for the shelter. Those designs were narrowed down to four, then to one. The students made numerous revisions before the design reached its final form. Throughout the process, they worked diligently to create a shelter that meets the needs of the community.
“Good design is not a luxury, but a necessity, and the greatest humanitarian task we face today is that of providing shelter,” says student Jayson Parker. “The Community by Design studio intends to step up and use our skills as designers to help improve the quality of life for residents of Greensboro.”
