Urban Village: The Game

A Wayne State University professor has created an urban planning simulation game that allows Detroiters to change a neighborhood along Mack Avenue, one of the city's major thoroughfares.

1 minute read

March 19, 2007, 5:00 AM PDT

By Mike Lydon

"Playing Stephen Schudlich's "Urban Village" game at Wayne State's Elaine L. Jacob Gallery calls to mind a first-season skit from Kids in the Hall, where editors William and Wonter, while walking around town, get overzealous and begin bowdlerizing their environment:

"How do you feel about that mailbox?"

"Hmm, too red."

"Lose it!"

"Feelings about the paper box?"

"Eh, like the box, hate the headlines. Lose the news!"

"Nice looking couple. I like the girl."

"Mmmm ... hate the guy."

"Strike him!"

For less absurd reasons, that's totally a game a lot of Detroiters have played while cruising the city: Where would you "relocate" a $5 prostitute? If you could, would you shut down Mickey Ds? Would you put a couple of liquor stores out of business on a street with no market? Would your choices strengthen the neighborhood or squander its vital resources?"

Thanks to Bob Cameron

FULL STORY: Mack Avenue: The game

Wednesday, March 14, 2007 in Metro Times

Community / Economic Development Education & Careers Social / Demographics Michigan

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