Check this out: Shockoe Forward

This is a project I started about two years ago while living in Richmond, VA. Shockoe Bottom is an area of town ripe for development, but nothing ever happens. After some research, I learned that the area was divided into 3 different city counsel districts… which means you’re never going to get enough voters to get you re-elected if you focus on this area of town.

This is bullshit.

So we started looking at ways to learn about what people wanted to see happen. From fixing potholes to revamping the farmers market, to opening a new business; we wanted to create a place for people to come together, to share ideas, and to help each other out… with the big goal to show the community that people do care about Shockoe Bottom, and that our voices wouldn’t go un-noticed.

The website is filled with projects. You can start something new or join in and help out. Over time, responses and suggestions become semi-automated: “here is the cellphone number for the person at the city you need to call to get this pothole fixed”. We really want it to be that direct… So the community can remove the layers, and create action.

On the back end, we can start to identify the people who really want to make a difference, who take charge of situations, and motivate action. On the other hand, we can find the detractors, and learn why they are opposed to certain things.

Today is the launch. So check it out, and if you have friends in Richmond, VA… please pass it along to them.

Thanks,
Rye