M.U.P. alumni and student named Knight Cities Challenge finalists

What is your best idea to make cities more successful? From a pool of more than 4,500 applicants, MUP (master of urban planning) student Greg Mangan and alum Martha Potere, provided answers that put them among only 144 finalists!

The Knight Cities Challenge, which offers up to $5 million to civic innovators from all walks of life who want to take hold of their cities' futures, selected Mangan and Potere for work that addresses three drivers of city success: talent, opportunity, and engagement. The Knight Cities Challenge draws applications from architects, activists, artists, city planners, entrepreneurs, students, educators, and city officials, as well as governments and organizations.

Mangan's submission is titled "Bus Stoplets by Southwest Detroit Business Association." It centers on improving the commute for transit riders by creating inviting bus stops that have the feel of an intimate city park.

Potere's submission is titled "Sign ON by Grandmont Rosedale Development Corp." It intends to enliven Grandmont Rosedale by pairing local artists with small business owners to create a "gallery of signage" that treats commercial signs as public art.

Congratulations to Greg and Martha!