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Grand Challenge: Restore and Improve Urban Infrastructure

  • Why improving infrastructure matters.  Infrastructure plays a critical role in shaping the functionality, safety, and accessibility of our communities. Improving infrastructure is essential because it directly impacts people’s daily lives—from the roads we travel to the water systems we rely on. Better infrastructure fosters economic growth, enhances public safety, and increases quality of life.
  • How students can contribute to this challenge.   Students can contribute to this challenge by applying their skills, creativity, and problem-solving abilities to real-world issues. Through research, analysis, and innovative thinking, students can identify areas in need of improvement, propose solutions, and even develop small-scale projects that contribute to a larger goal. This participation provides a platform for them to engage with real-world challenges, while also learning about the technical and social considerations involved in infrastructure improvement.
  • How this project ties into the broader curriculum and real-world problem solving.  This project integrates well into the broader curriculum by connecting academic theory with practical application. It encourages students to think critically, analyze complex systems, and develop solutions that address real-world problems, which are essential skills in today’s workforce. Moreover, this project highlights the significance of civic engagement and allows students to experience firsthand how their learning can have a meaningful impact on the world around them.

Project Guidelines and Resources

How to Participate

    • Begin by familiarizing yourself with the importance of infrastructure and the impact it has on communities. This includes exploring how different types of infrastructure (e.g., roads, bridges, water systems) support our daily lives.
  • Recommended Reading: Words Whispered in Water by Sandy Rosenthal, which highlights the need for resilient infrastructure and the consequences of neglect. 
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  • Students and teachers should brainstorm and choose an area of infrastructure that interests them—whether it's transportation, water management, energy systems, or public spaces. This focus area will guide their research and project work.
  • Use resources such as articles, case studies, and videos to understand current challenges and innovative solutions in your chosen area.

Share Your Work

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Photo & Media Gallery

Visuals of Infrastructure Projects

FAQ and Support

What is the Grand Challenge?

  • The Grand Challenge is an initiative designed to engage students in real-world problem-solving by focusing on infrastructure improvements. It encourages students to explore challenges in infrastructure and develop creative solutions.

How do I participate in the Grand Challenge?

  • To participate, follow the steps in the “How to Participate” section, which includes selecting an infrastructure focus, conducting research, and proposing solutions. Teachers and students can work together through each step to create meaningful projects.

Are there any requirements or prerequisites for joining?

  • There are no specific prerequisites, but a basic understanding of infrastructure or related topics may be helpful. Anyone interested in learning and contributing can participate.

What resources are available for my project?

  • Recommended resources include Words Whispered in Water by Sandy Rosenthal, online articles, government websites, and the links provided in the “How to Participate” section.

How can I upload my project or comments?

  • You can upload your project files, such as presentations or videos, through the designated upload portal on the website. Make sure to follow any file size or format guidelines provided there.

Who do I contact if I have technical issues with uploads or comments?

  • For any technical issues, please see the contact information below to reach the project support team.

Contact Section: A form or email for submitting any issues or questions directly to the site administrator or project lead.

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