Dive Brief:
- Residents in Seattle's University District are mulling a civic proposal to increase residential housing options surrounding the University of Washington, which eyes increasing development for technology and innovation hubs in the area.
- Supporters of the project say the development will increase property values and the vibrancy of the community, but detractors say the the character of the community would be greatly diminished.
- The area is a primary residential target area to accommodate the city's growing population and UW's expansion efforts.
Dive Insight:
College leaders should seek to work with community partners in developing commercial and research real estate that can support the growth of a community, but can run counter-cultural to the history and tradition of neighbors living within it. Campuses can reap additional tax revenues and increase real state values about neighborhoods which surround them, but they also must pledge to be good stewards in issues like public safety, parking and support from various community initiatives.