With private and public support, largely consisting of a National Science Foundation EArly-concept Grant for Exploratory Research (EAGER) award for Informal Science Education (ISE), which supports exploratory work in its early stages on untested, but potentially transformative, research ideas or approaches, MM/Call designed its first test hub site for BROADWAY: 1000 STEPS at 137th Street and Broadway.
The installation was implemented in concert with the Institute for Urban Design (IFUD) 2010 Urban Design Week. Its content and public programs were developed with the assistance of faculty and students at the City College Academy for Professional Preparation (CCAPP) Division of Science, the Montefiore Park Neighborhood Association, and Community Board 9.
This temporary installation is being evaluated by John Fraser, Ph.D. AIA, formerly of the Institute for Learning Innovation (ILI) and currently President and CEO of the New Knowledge Organization. Data from Fraser’s research was collected through on-line surveys, facilitated forums, and on-the-street interviews in English and Spanish. Even before the final reports have been completed, the artist and collaborator observations of the test installation have helped refine the project tactics: from how to deepen the viewer experience through a focus on more site-specific content, fabricator/contractor vetting, ergonomic considerations, to a better awareness of regulatory issues, and greater community partner participation.
The community partners at 137th Street included the Montefiore Park Neighborhood Association, Community Board Nine, and the City College Department of Urban Design.
The primary topics at 137th Street included air, water, waste, life, energy, and food.