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Lowell Emergent Generation

Age

Response
Answer Options
Count
112
answered question 112
skipped question 4

Categorie
Number Response Date Response Text
s
1 Apr 7, 2011 12:10 AM 24
2 Apr 7, 2011 12:39 AM 29
3 Apr 7, 2011 12:41 AM 22
4 Apr 7, 2011 1:03 AM 29
5 Apr 7, 2011 1:08 AM 25
6 Apr 7, 2011 1:13 AM 34
7 Apr 7, 2011 1:25 AM 27
8 Apr 7, 2011 1:30 AM 26
9 Apr 7, 2011 1:51 AM 23
10 Apr 7, 2011 2:29 AM 33
11 Apr 7, 2011 3:58 AM 31
12 Apr 7, 2011 4:31 AM 22
13 Apr 7, 2011 12:09 PM 26
14 Apr 7, 2011 12:51 PM 23
15 Apr 7, 2011 2:14 PM 30
16 Apr 7, 2011 2:53 PM 27
17 Apr 7, 2011 3:05 PM 22
18 Apr 7, 2011 3:23 PM 29
19 Apr 7, 2011 3:28 PM 35
20 Apr 7, 2011 3:47 PM 22
21 Apr 7, 2011 5:21 PM 30
22 Apr 7, 2011 5:35 PM 33
23 Apr 7, 2011 6:20 PM 24
24 Apr 7, 2011 6:31 PM 24
25 Apr 7, 2011 6:36 PM 28
26 Apr 7, 2011 6:36 PM 26
27 Apr 7, 2011 6:43 PM 26
28 Apr 7, 2011 7:35 PM 33
29 Apr 7, 2011 8:11 PM 22
30 Apr 7, 2011 8:20 PM 34
31 Apr 7, 2011 9:05 PM 32
32 Apr 8, 2011 12:03 AM 27
33 Apr 8, 2011 12:16 PM 27
34 Apr 8, 2011 3:00 PM 23
35 Apr 8, 2011 3:34 PM 35
36 Apr 8, 2011 4:47 PM 53
37 Apr 9, 2011 12:13 PM 24
38 Apr 11, 2011 3:08 PM 26
39 Apr 11, 2011 7:12 PM 48
40 Apr 12, 2011 2:55 AM 26
41 Apr 12, 2011 3:38 PM 25
42 Apr 12, 2011 8:15 PM 26
43 Apr 13, 2011 3:15 PM 29
44 Apr 13, 2011 4:06 PM 29
45 Apr 15, 2011 12:00 AM 35
46 Apr 17, 2011 4:20 PM 26
47 Apr 17, 2011 6:06 PM 23
48 Apr 17, 2011 6:29 PM 40
49 Apr 17, 2011 8:25 PM 28
50 Apr 17, 2011 9:32 PM 30
51 Apr 17, 2011 9:53 PM 23
52 Apr 17, 2011 10:24 PM 27
53 Apr 17, 2011 10:42 PM 31
54 Apr 17, 2011 11:00 PM 29
55 Apr 17, 2011 11:04 PM 35
56 Apr 17, 2011 11:23 PM 30
57 Apr 17, 2011 11:34 PM 34
58 Apr 17, 2011 11:38 PM 24
59 Apr 18, 2011 2:50 AM 28
60 Apr 18, 2011 3:15 AM 31
61 Apr 18, 2011 4:43 AM 35
62 Apr 18, 2011 12:11 PM 30
63 Apr 18, 2011 1:29 PM 29
64 Apr 18, 2011 3:37 PM 35
65 Apr 18, 2011 3:54 PM 36
66 Apr 18, 2011 3:56 PM 21
67 Apr 18, 2011 5:59 PM 28
68 Apr 18, 2011 8:31 PM 30
69 Apr 18, 2011 9:25 PM 33
70 Apr 18, 2011 11:24 PM 25
71 Apr 18, 2011 11:39 PM 26
72 Apr 18, 2011 11:56 PM 28
73 Apr 19, 2011 12:47 AM 25
74 Apr 19, 2011 1:09 AM 27
75 Apr 19, 2011 1:30 AM 25
76 Apr 19, 2011 1:39 AM 28
77 Apr 19, 2011 11:27 AM 31
78 Apr 19, 2011 11:48 AM 32
79 Apr 19, 2011 11:52 AM 33
80 Apr 19, 2011 12:20 PM 24
81 Apr 19, 2011 12:39 PM 31
82 Apr 19, 2011 12:49 PM 23
83 Apr 19, 2011 1:57 PM 23
84 Apr 19, 2011 1:59 PM 28
85 Apr 19, 2011 2:03 PM 32
86 Apr 19, 2011 2:09 PM 26
87 Apr 19, 2011 2:34 PM 26
88 Apr 19, 2011 2:42 PM 22
89 Apr 19, 2011 2:44 PM 26
90 Apr 19, 2011 2:51 PM 30
91 Apr 19, 2011 2:59 PM 26
92 Apr 19, 2011 3:02 PM 27
93 Apr 19, 2011 4:06 PM 21
94 Apr 19, 2011 4:39 PM 25
95 Apr 19, 2011 4:50 PM 29
96 Apr 19, 2011 5:08 PM 32
97 Apr 19, 2011 6:49 PM 28
98 Apr 19, 2011 6:53 PM 24
99 Apr 19, 2011 9:01 PM 23
100 Apr 20, 2011 1:53 PM 21
101 Apr 20, 2011 2:35 PM 28
102 Apr 20, 2011 3:49 PM 40
103 Apr 20, 2011 5:09 PM 26
104 Apr 20, 2011 5:29 PM 27
105 Apr 20, 2011 6:16 PM 28
106 Apr 20, 2011 7:13 PM 30
107 Apr 21, 2011 12:04 AM 27
108 Apr 21, 2011 3:51 PM 23
109 Apr 21, 2011 4:34 PM 24
110 Apr 21, 2011 11:16 PM 27
111 Apr 22, 2011 2:09 AM 28
112 Apr 22, 2011 4:29 PM 32
Lowell Emergent Generation

Ethnicity

Response Response
Answer Options
Percent Count
Mixed Race 4.3% 5
Asian/SE Asian 15.7% 18
Hispanic/Latino 10.4% 12
African/African American 4.3% 5
Caucasian 65.2% 75
answered question 115
skipped question 1
Mixed Race
Asian/SE Asian
Hispanic/Latino
African/African American
Caucasian
Lowell Emergent Generation

Gender

Response Response
Answer Options
Percent Count
Male 41.7% 48
Female 58.3% 67
answered question 115
skipped question 1
Male
Female
Lowell Emergent Generation

In what industry do you work?

Response Response
Answer Options
Percent Count
for-profit/corporate 20.4% 23
for-profit/small business 12.4% 14
non-profit 43.4% 49
public (local, state, federal) 22.1% 25
arts/creative 15.0% 17
self-employed 10.6% 12
answered question 113
skipped question 3
Lowell Emergent Generation

Did you attend the 'Conversation with the Emergent Generation' event on March 24th?

Response Response
Answer Options
Percent Count
Yes 28.4% 33
No 71.6% 83
answered question 116
skipped question 0
Yes
No
Lowell Emergent Generation
What are 3 words that you think reflect the PERCEPTION of Lowell from
the outside?
Response
Answer Options
Count
92
answered question 92
skipped question 24

Categorie
Number Response Date Response Text
s
1 Apr 7, 2011 12:16 AM developing_x000D_
diverse, urban, historical
2 Apr 7, 2011 12:44 AM rough
3 Apr 7, 2011 12:45 AM music, art, violence
4 Apr 7, 2011 1:12 AM Urban Question Mark
5 Apr 7, 2011 1:31 AM DANGEROUS, INNOVATIVE, HISTORY
6 Apr 7, 2011 1:37 AM Dangerous, Drugs, and Ghetto
7 Apr 7, 2011 1:52 AM dangerous, gangs, asians
8 Apr 7, 2011 2:33 AM gritty, diverse, dangerous
9 Apr 7, 2011 2:59 AM lower; mills; crime
10 Apr 7, 2011 12:14 PM poor, downtrodden, dangerous
11 Apr 7, 2011 2:18 PM If you're not from Lowell and not attending UMass Lowell, you would
12 Apr 7, 2011 3:07 PM gangs_x000D_
mills, crime, university
13 Apr 7, 2011 3:39 PM impoverished
14 Apr 7, 2011 3:52 PM poor, dirty, dangerous
15 Apr 7, 2011 5:24 PM In
crime rate,-bad
general school
rough, system, violence
scary_x000D_
16 Apr 7, 2011 6:05 PM People who've
scary_x000D_ been here lately - up & coming, scary in some places
17 Apr 7, 2011 6:25 PM dirty
18 Apr 7, 2011 6:35 PM Violent_x000D_
low-income, gang, immigrant
19 Apr 7, 2011 6:37 PM Not fun
20 Apr 7, 2011 6:41 PM Rough, working-class, industrial
21 Apr 7, 2011 6:57 PM rough, industrial, scary
22 Apr 7, 2011 7:44 PM Violence, drugs and ghetto
23 Apr 7, 2011 8:13 PM trashy, dirty, scumbags
24 Apr 7, 2011 8:38 PM crime-ridden, dirty, impoverished
25 Apr 7, 2011 9:06 PM Ghetto_x000D_
gangs, mills, art
26 Apr 8, 2011 12:09 AM Small
Problem_x000D_
27 Apr 8, 2011 12:18 PM Mills
28 Apr 8, 2011 3:41 PM shitty distant boring
29 Apr 8, 2011 4:50 PM Rough gangs multicultural
30 Apr 9, 2011 12:15 PM gangs, diversity, dangerous
31 Apr 11, 2011 3:22 PM Violence, Poor, evolving
32 Apr 11, 2011 7:19 PM Dangerous, industrial, multi-cultural
33 Apr 12, 2011 3:41 PM City, Dangerous, Traffic
Dangerous_x000D_
34 Apr 12, 2011 8:21 PM Changing
dangerous _x000D_
35 Apr 13, 2011 3:22 PM diverse
36 Apr 13, 2011 4:16 PM dangerous, voilent, washed up
37 Apr 15, 2011 12:02 AM poor, diverse, improving
38 Apr 17, 2011 4:29 PM 2.
dirty, unsafe, drugs
dangerous_x000D_
39 3. boring
Apr 17, 2011 6:15 PM Gangs_x000D_
40 Apr 17, 2011 6:57 PM Post-industrial
41 Apr 17, 2011 9:54 PM Dirty, Scary and Ghetto
dangerous_x000D_
42 Apr 17, 2011 11:06 PM crime-ridden
unsafe_x000D_
43 Apr 17, 2011 11:07 PM boring
Gangs violence _x000D_
44 Apr 17, 2011 11:27 PM asians_x000D_
no education
45 Apr 17, 2011 11:41 PM the fighter
Tough_x000D_
46 Apr 18, 2011 2:55 AM Dirty
47 Apr 18, 2011 3:25 AM old, political, poor
48 Apr 18, 2011 4:48 AM Unsafe_x000D_
violent.artistic.underrated
49 Apr 18, 2011 12:38 PM Gentrification
50 Apr 18, 2011 1:32 PM dirty, crime, old
51 Apr 18, 2011 4:00 PM Diversity, different, and welcoming
52 Apr 18, 2011 4:06 PM Historic. Secluded. Somewhat dangerous.
53 Apr 18, 2011 4:21 PM cultural, crime, historic
54 Apr 18, 2011 6:16 PM Blue-collar; mills; gangs.
55 Apr 18, 2011 9:03 PM rough_x000D_
Changing, inspiring, innovative
56 Apr 18, 2011 9:34 PM mean
57 Apr 18, 2011 11:28 PM Historic, dangerous, poor
58 Apr 18, 2011 11:46 PM history_x000D_
Crime-ridden, Urban, boring
59 Apr 18, 2011 11:59 PM fun
60 Apr 19, 2011 1:13 AM Diverse, city, large
61 Apr 19, 2011 1:34 AM dangerous, artsy, good to visit not to move to
62 Apr 19, 2011 1:41 AM Unsafe, Up-and-Coming
63 Apr 19, 2011 11:50 AM ethinic - historical - residential
64 Apr 19, 2011 12:42 PM poor, crime, dirty
65 Apr 19, 2011 2:04 PM rough, dangerous, traffic
66 Apr 19, 2011 2:07 PM Diverse, Dirty and Undesirable
67 Apr 19, 2011 2:10 PM dirty gang-ridden confusing
Run-down_x000D_
68 Apr 19, 2011 2:18 PM Violent
69 Apr 19, 2011 2:42 PM Crime. Minorities. Ghetto.
70 Apr 19, 2011 2:45 PM city, drugs/gangs, dirty
71 Apr 19, 2011 2:46 PM mills, gangs, poor
72 Apr 19, 2011 3:05 PM Middle
Tough, class_x000D_
Dynamic, Historic
73 Apr 19, 2011 3:15 PM Misunderstood
74 Apr 19, 2011 3:58 PM Unsafe, Scary, Large
75 Apr 19, 2011 4:20 PM Mixed
innovative, clean, historic
Income_x000D_
76 Apr 19, 2011 4:47 PM High Crime
77 Apr 19, 2011 4:55 PM Unsafe, Rundown, Unknown
78 Apr 19, 2011 5:18 PM Urban, Up-and-Coming, Poor
79 Apr 19, 2011 6:57 PM Trashy, Crowded, Poor
80 Apr 19, 2011 7:28 PM negativity (crime, gangs, etc), arts & culture, just like any other city
81 Apr 19, 2011 9:15 PM Poor, dangerous, congested
82 Apr 20, 2011 2:20 AM Lawrence-lite, uneducated, unsophisticated
83 Apr 20, 2011 2:38 PM Crime_x000D_
emerging, urban, jobs
84 Apr 20, 2011 5:20 PM Historic
Post-industrial_x000D_
85 Apr 20, 2011 5:43 PM Shady
86 Apr 20, 2011 6:22 PM Diverse, Historic, Dangerous
87 Apr 20, 2011 7:17 PM diversity, crime, historical
Diversity_x000D_
88 Apr 21, 2011 12:07 AM Up and coming
89 Apr 21, 2011 4:03 PM dangerous, poor, dirty
90 Apr 21, 2011 4:38 PM Diverse, No job opportunities, Dangerous
91 Apr 21, 2011 11:21 PM Urban,
Room forHistoric, Unsafe at times
growth_x000D_
92 Apr 22, 2011 4:35 PM Arts Community
nding UMass Lowell, you would either think it's a heavily gang-involved city, or super artsy. It depends on the environment of people you su

& coming, scary in some places, nice for the folk festival
culture, just like any other city in Mass.
environment of people you surround yourself in.
Lowell Emergent Generation
What are 3 words that you think reflect the REALITY of Lowell from your
perspective?
Response
Answer Options
Count
92
answered question 92
skipped question 24

Categorie
Number Response Date Response Text
s
1 Apr 7, 2011 12:16 AM artistic_x000D_
beautiful, complex, rich
2 Apr 7, 2011 12:44 AM developing
3 Apr 7, 2011 12:45 AM diversity, opportunity, cool
4 Apr 7, 2011 1:12 AM Experimental Proving Ground
5 Apr 7, 2011 1:31 AM INSULAR, PARTNERSHIPS, ROOTS
6 Apr 7, 2011 1:37 AM Diversity, Developing, and Good
7 Apr 7, 2011 1:52 AM roots, humble, misunderstood
8 Apr 7, 2011 2:33 AM artsy, innovative, changing
9 Apr 7, 2011 2:59 AM potential; ethnic; divided
10 Apr 7, 2011 12:14 PM creative, unique, accessible
11 Apr 7, 2011 2:18 PM Cultural, artsy and opportunity.
12 Apr 7, 2011 3:07 PM change_x000D_
culture, community, art
13 Apr 7, 2011 3:39 PM opportunitey
14 Apr 7, 2011 3:52 PM vibrant, culturally-driven, potential
15 Apr 7, 2011 5:24 PM Many things to do, different communities, lots of activities for kids
16 Apr 7, 2011 6:05 PM Struggling, fascinating, awesome
entertaining_x000D_
17 Apr 7, 2011 6:25 PM fun
18 Apr 7, 2011 6:35 PM Safe_x000D_
diverse, young, community
19 Apr 7, 2011 6:37 PM Unique
20 Apr 7, 2011 6:41 PM Industrial, beautiful, diverse
21 Apr 7, 2011 6:57 PM growing, creative, safe
22 Apr 7, 2011 7:44 PM Historic, Booming and Pride
23 Apr 7, 2011 8:13 PM pretty, historical, cultural
24 Apr 7, 2011 8:38 PM energy, potential, diversity
25 Apr 7, 2011 9:06 PM Poverty_x000D_
community, creative arts, youth development
26 Apr 8, 2011 12:09 AM Violent
Opportunity_x000D_
27 Apr 8, 2011 12:18 PM Developing
28 Apr 8, 2011 3:41 PM flawed unique promising
29 Apr 8, 2011 4:50 PM Eventful diverse rich
30 Apr 9, 2011 12:15 PM diverse, ethnic, historical
31 Apr 11, 2011 3:22 PM Poor, evolving, undervalued
32 Apr 11, 2011 7:19 PM Changing, mult-culutral, generational conflict
33 Apr 12, 2011 3:41 PM Diverse, Growth, Opportunity
Promising_x000D_
34 Apr 12, 2011 8:21 PM Younger
culture_x000D_
35 Apr 13, 2011 3:22 PM interesting
36 Apr 13, 2011 4:16 PM dirty, livable, traffic
37 Apr 15, 2011 12:02 AM diverse, proud, unpretentious
38 Apr 17, 2011 4:29 PM 2.
community, resilient, evoloving
poor_x000D_
39 3. unfocused
Apr 17, 2011 6:15 PM Complex_x000D_
40 Apr 17, 2011 6:57 PM Interesting
41 Apr 17, 2011 9:54 PM Diverse, Engaging and Historic
wonderful_x000D_
42 Apr 17, 2011 11:06 PM artistic
festivals_x000D_
43 Apr 17, 2011 11:07 PM music
lots of places to recieve an education _x000D_
44 Apr 17, 2011 11:27 PM transforming_x000D_
lots of oppertunity
45 Apr 17, 2011 11:41 PM misconcieved
Beautiful_x000D_
46 Apr 18, 2011 2:55 AM Opportunity
47 Apr 18, 2011 3:25 AM historic, cultural, transition
48 Apr 18, 2011 4:48 AM exclusive_x000D_
sometimes violent.very artistic.trying to get its wings.
49 Apr 18, 2011 12:38 PM changing
50 Apr 18, 2011 1:32 PM vibrant, fun, HOME
51 Apr 18, 2011 4:00 PM segregation, many low income families
52 Apr 18, 2011 4:06 PM Vibrant. Interesting. Dynamic.
53 Apr 18, 2011 4:21 PM diverse, young, non-progressive
54 Apr 18, 2011 6:16 PM Vibrant; historic; diverse.
55 Apr 18, 2011 9:03 PM dynamic_x000D_
Trapped, apathetic, resourceful
56 Apr 18, 2011 9:34 PM authentic
57 Apr 18, 2011 11:28 PM Close knit, evolving, diverse
58 Apr 18, 2011 11:46 PM busy_x000D_
Fun, lively, well cultured
59 Apr 18, 2011 11:59 PM lively
60 Apr 19, 2011 1:13 AM Diverse, up and coming
61 Apr 19, 2011 1:34 AM growing, eclectic, standing in its own way
62 Apr 19, 2011 1:41 AM Historical, Vibrant, Evolving
63 Apr 19, 2011 11:50 AM convenient - cultural - artistic
64 Apr 19, 2011 12:42 PM beautiful, emerging, collaborative
65 Apr 19, 2011 2:04 PM Great community, great dontown, hard working
66 Apr 19, 2011 2:07 PM Diverse, Community and Average
67 Apr 19, 2011 2:10 PM interesting vibrant misunderstood
Diverse_x000D_
68 Apr 19, 2011 2:18 PM Renaissance
69 Apr 19, 2011 2:42 PM Growing. Diverse. Artsy.
70 Apr 19, 2011 2:45 PM improved, up & coming, active
71 Apr 19, 2011 2:46 PM art, diversity, youth
72 Apr 19, 2011 3:05 PM Almost_x000D_
Close-knit, Dynamic, Parochial
73 Apr 19, 2011 3:15 PM Attempting
74 Apr 19, 2011 3:58 PM Diverse, Fun, Home
75 Apr 19, 2011 4:20 PM Service
innovative, clean, historic
Availability_x000D_
76 Apr 19, 2011 4:47 PM Traffic
77 Apr 19, 2011 4:55 PM Vibrant, Options, Diversity
78 Apr 19, 2011 5:18 PM Up-and-Coming, Diverse, Segregated
79 Apr 19, 2011 6:57 PM Up and coming, Diverse, Entertaining
80 Apr 19, 2011 7:28 PM varied ethnicities, collaboration, community
81 Apr 19, 2011 9:15 PM Dense, busy, diverse
82 Apr 20, 2011 2:20 AM striving, schizophrenic, diverse
83 Apr 20, 2011 2:38 PM Changing_x000D_
no jobs, emerging, trying
84 Apr 20, 2011 5:20 PM Diverse (economically, socially)
Charismatic_x000D_
85 Apr 20, 2011 5:43 PM ... and yes, gritty!
86 Apr 20, 2011 6:22 PM Diverse, Exciting, Safe
87 Apr 20, 2011 7:17 PM diversity, thriving, historical
Vibrant_x000D_
88 Apr 21, 2011 12:07 AM Cultured
89 Apr 21, 2011 4:03 PM sketchy, dirty, has potential
90 Apr 21, 2011 4:38 PM Diverse, community driven, welcoming
91 Apr 21, 2011 11:21 PM Diverse, Exciting,
Diverse in Great place to live
select areas_x000D_
92 Apr 22, 2011 4:35 PM Traditional Arts
ties, lots of activities for kids
to get its wings.
Lowell Emergent Generation

Do you think your interests are reflected by our elected Officials?

Response Response
Answer Options
Percent Count
Yes 7.3% 7
No 14.6% 14
Sometimes 78.1% 75
answered question 96
skipped question 20
Yes
No
Sometimes
Lowell Emergent Generation

If no, do you have any recommendations?

Response
Answer Options
Count
20
answered question 20
skipped question 96

Categorie
Number Response Date Response Text
s
1 Apr 7, 2011 12:45 AM i think the city could make sure there is food access, that people hav
2 Apr 7, 2011 2:33 AM I'd love to see more action-oriented leadership. Talk is cheap.
3 Apr 7, 2011 2:18 PM Yes, we need to encourage more people from the community to run
4 Apr 7, 2011 3:39 PM Empower new leaders to run for office
5 Apr 8, 2011 3:41 PM not really. it will just take time to kick the bums out.
6 Apr 8, 2011 4:50 PM Attend all the happenings on the city year round
7 Apr 11, 2011 7:19 PM Work directly with populations not represented on the city council; sa
8 Apr 13, 2011 3:22 PM I think elected officials talk about celebrating culture, the arts and the
9 Apr 17, 2011 6:15 PM adopt fair voting!
10 Apr 17, 2011 11:27 PM The city counslors and school board are all old many of them have b
11 Apr 18, 2011 4:48 AM 119 gallery needs to be more present.less talking, more doing. outre
_x000D_
12 Apr 18, 2011 12:38 PM create a space for city officials to vent. offer support to city officials
13 Apr 18, 2011 1:32 PM Some of the newer blood on the council more accurately reflect my i
14 Apr 18, 2011 4:21 PM less crime/drugs, better schooling, more jobs, more activities for the
15 Apr 18, 2011 6:16 PM I support serious electoral reform in the U.S. and the abandonment o
16 Apr 18, 2011 9:03 PM I recognized that the leadership is working at breakneck speed to ac
17 Apr 19, 2011 2:18 PM Lowell's elected officials need to better represent the interests of the
18 Apr 19, 2011 3:05 PM Politicians here are often resistant to change, more conspicuously th
19 Apr 19, 2011 7:28 PM I think it is important that individual councilors represent various grou
20 Apr 21, 2011 4:38 PM Change the winner at large voting system
is food access, that people have the opportunity to grow and eat fresh food and raise chickens. the Children's library section needs to be b
eadership. Talk is cheap.
ople from the community to run for election.

the bums out.

presented on the city council; saw success with Patrick Murphy and Frankie in the last election cycle. Lets get a Cambodian on the council!
brating culture, the arts and the diversity of the community, but they themselves do not embody this diversity.

are all old many of them have been there since I was a kid and I'm 30now!!
t.less talking, more doing. outreach shouldn't be limited to people involve in 501c's. branch out by creating different, small theater, art space
t. offer support to city officials as they have frustrations, anger, sadness, their own racism, their own internalized racism to work on. all of th
ncil more accurately reflect my interests.
ore jobs, more activities for the public, less corruption
he U.S. and the abandonment of plurality elections for a proportional representation model.
rking at breakneck speed to accomplish their goals to meet the needs of the community and I appreciate their collective efforts. However, th
er represent the interests of the working professionals who live in the City.
change, more conspicuously than in other places. Office holders seem more interested in keeping their offices than extending themselves b
ouncilors represent various groups. For the most part, they do. There may be things I disagree with but I believe they represent their constit
s library section needs to be brought up to date for the needs of families of all sorts. The downtown could be much more family friendly in it

a Cambodian on the council!

ferent, small theater, art spaces. work on providing jobs AND affordable housing, not just affordable housing.
zed racism to work on. all of these things, if ACTED on could be detriment to the effectiveness of their work and to the city. so creating a su

r collective efforts. However, things are not going to change easily. Not without people that represent the communities that are being served

s than extending themselves by making the bold decisions necessary for the city to drive a true urban renaissance in Lowell. Until elected o
ve they represent their constituents they are in communication with. I would like more female representation and a more diverse council bu
much more family friendly in its public spaces.

nd to the city. so creating a supportive space for them to speak about what it feels like can only help them put those FEELINGS aside, acc

munities that are being served. I hate to say it, but haven't anyone noticed the apparent lack of people of color in position of power this city?

sance in Lowell. Until elected officials take make real wagers with their political capital, Lowell's progress to economic and social luminance
and a more diverse council but would not criticize those on it now.
ut those FEELINGS aside, access their best thinking, and help make the entire city move ahead.

or in position of power this city? I really believe that young people, students, and community need to have voices on the board that will look a

conomic and social luminance predominance prominence will be sluggish at best.


es on the board that will look at them as people not as a contract or revenue for their businesses or "those people that need our help".
eople that need our help".
Lowell Emergent Generation

Do you think Lowell is dirtier than a city this size should be?

Response Response
Answer Options
Percent Count
Yes 33.0% 31
No 39.4% 37
Not sure 27.7% 26
answered question 94
skipped question 22
Yes
No
Not sure
Lowell Emergent Generation

If yes, do you have any recommendations?

Response
Answer Options
Count
41
answered question 41
skipped question 75

Categorie
Number Response Date Response Text
s
1 Apr 7, 2011 1:31 AM I think most cities are pretty dirty. Downtown Lowell is much cleaner
2 Apr 7, 2011 2:33 AM Lowell is not dirty for crying out loud!
3 Apr 7, 2011 2:59 AM New recycling projects, trash projects - keep these jobs/projects loca
4 Apr 7, 2011 12:14 PM neighborhood action (community clean-ups) more public trash cans,
5 Apr 7, 2011 3:39 PM I don't think we should accept "dirty" as a state of breing. As part of
6 Apr 7, 2011 6:05 PM I've noticed that the actual roads and sidewalks/paths are free of tra
7 Apr 7, 2011 6:41 PM More trash barrels, street cleaners paid for by tax dollars, less cars,
8 Apr 7, 2011 8:13 PM fix pot holes, more trash bins/recycle bins around
9 Apr 7, 2011 8:38 PM it has to do with ownership and pride... unless we can invigorate the
10 Apr 8, 2011 12:09 AM Teach people how to properly recycle.
11 Apr 8, 2011 4:50 PM Ditto
12 Apr 11, 2011 7:19 PM Scads of trash along the banks of the Concord River, an area we are
13 Apr 12, 2011 3:41 PM Green Parks
14 Apr 12, 2011 8:21 PM There is a lot a trash around downtown especially. I don't think it's th
15 Apr 13, 2011 4:16 PM focus more on neighborhood cleanup rather than just downtown, fire
16 Apr 15, 2011 12:02 AM Education campaigns, community clean up events, more trash barre
17 Apr 17, 2011 11:06 PM Downtown and the canals need more attention. The canals are used
18 Apr 17, 2011 11:27 PM Depends on which part of the city you are in.
19 Apr 18, 2011 2:55 AM Some areas are really brought down by neglected or abandoned pro
20 Apr 18, 2011 4:48 AM rr records. more funding for artists. get rid of dodgy night clubs and v
21 Apr 18, 2011 12:38 PM It's a small enough city that cleaning it isn't impossible. create "keep
22 Apr 18, 2011 1:32 PM I don't know really. I hate litter and notice it a lot more than I think oth
23 Apr 18, 2011 4:06 PM I believe that a little portion of the city downtown is well maintain and
24 Apr 18, 2011 6:16 PM Strengthening the enforcement of laws against littering and property
25 Apr 18, 2011 9:03 PM Dirtier in terms of cleaniness? I'm in downtown so I can't tell, but driv
26 Apr 19, 2011 1:34 AM more community clean up days, more funding for organizations that
27 Apr 19, 2011 2:07 PM I think that the reason for the "dirty" reputation is the age of the exter
28 Apr 19, 2011 2:10 PM If by dirty you mean cheap looking. I think there is a lot of transient b
29 Apr 19, 2011 2:18 PM Increase recycling and community clean-up efforts.
30 Apr 19, 2011 2:42 PM My actual answer is no but I think there could be a better cleaning e
31 Apr 19, 2011 2:45 PM some sections certainly are, but not for the most part
32 Apr 19, 2011 2:46 PM holding events or spaces where residents can feel proud and have o
33 Apr 19, 2011 4:47 PM Trash and Recycle should be out there more as well as the parks de
34 Apr 19, 2011 4:55 PM some sections are very well maintained and almost always clean. o
35 Apr 19, 2011 6:55 PM I don't think a city "should" be dirty. It's a reflection of the pride reside
36 Apr 19, 2011 7:28 PM Better efforts need to be made to clean up on a regular basis. The c
37 Apr 19, 2011 9:15 PM Cleaning the streets and canals of trash and grafitti would do a lot to
38 Apr 20, 2011 2:20 AM Not much can be done until a majority of the people in the neighborh
39 Apr 20, 2011 5:43 PM I don't use "gritty" as a negative word, necessarily - I've lived and wo
40 Apr 21, 2011 4:03 PM There is dog poop everywhere. It's all over the sidewalks where we
41 Apr 22, 2011 4:35 PM It seem that the public parks downtown to do not see the attention th
wntown Lowell is much cleaner that Manhattan, for instance. Do I wish people had less trash in their yards: yes.

s - keep these jobs/projects local. Offer


an-ups) more public trash cans, fines for littering
as a state of breing. As part of a wholistic approach to improve the city and engage all residents, part of the efforts need to include beuatific
sidewalks/paths are free of trash, but if you look into the area next to it (on the banks of the river, open lots, etc.), there is so much trash! I
aid for by tax dollars, less cars, bicycle paths, bike rental places, more frequent buses and bus routes

.. unless we can invigorate the population as a whole to take responsibility and clean up after itself, there's not a whole lot that can be done

Concord River, an area we are trying to connect to citizens. Work with Lowell Canal Cleaners to do twic annual pick up.

wn especially. I don't think it's the lack of people/machines cleaning up it's that there are a lot of people who don't care and litter.
rather than just downtown, fire some parking enforcement and hire people to clean things up instead
an up events, more trash barrels that are emptied regularly, policy foot patrol speaking with citizens (getting police officers out of cars)
attention. The canals are used as a tourist attraction but often look like they are a garbage dump.

by neglected or abandoned properties.


et rid of dodgy night clubs and venues that only serve the college crowd and cause more municipal waste of money by ways of police prese
t isn't impossible. create "keep your neighborhood fresh, keep your city fresh" initiative - something like that. where if each neighborhood c
tice it a lot more than I think others might. More public trashcans (that actually get picked up) would be great. Not just in downtown!
downtown is well maintain and clean, but if you drive around many other close by neighborhoods (Lower Belvidere for instance), is not the
ws against littering and property maintenance; eductional/awareness campaigns.
downtown so I can't tell, but drive down to some of the economically depressed neighborhoods and you can see how "dirty" the city is.
e funding for organizations that host them
eputation is the age of the exterior of the buildings. The inside of many of these buildings have been renovated and are great. It is a dilemm
hink there is a lot of transient businesses and owners that don't care about the city.
ean-up efforts.
re could be a better cleaning effort because of the economic growth the city is having, we need the city to be more attractive to attract visito
or the most part
ents can feel proud and have ownership of their neighborhood.
re more as well as the parks department. Neighborhoods should be coming together to build up involvement as well as finding ways to prev
ed and almost always clean. other sections appear neglected.
s a reflection of the pride residents have in their community- I have seen people throw litter from moving vehicles. A beautification project c
an up on a regular basis. The city can provide basic services, but neighbors should also be responsible. A volunteer mission could occur w
ash and grafitti would do a lot to improve Lowell's image and might help to improve overall littering. Also, a ton of homes are falling apart and
y of the people in the neighborhoods care enough about their surroundings to clean it up.
, necessarily - I've lived and worked in cities that were so clean as to feel sterile, and I prefer Lowell's character. But a bit of streetfront clean
l over the sidewalks where we walk, getting washed into the water, everywhere. Is there any way to reinforce cleaning up after our pets? Ev
wn to do not see the attention they could (they are tiny parks and wouldn't take much attention to fix up/clean)
fforts need to include beuatification. Solutions are needed on how to manage, clean and utilize the canal system, as the owners don't have
tc.), there is so much trash! I think more neighborhood cleanups for specific streets, and better trash pick up (ie instead of pushing trash to

ot a whole lot that can be done. community cleanups are a start, but it's more about changing personal attitudes and behavior, which is muc

on't care and litter.

police officers out of cars)

money by ways of police presence


where if each neighborhood can take charge of keeping it clean - then the city can keep the public areas clean.
Not just in downtown!
videre for instance), is not the same. Also, me coming to the town as an outsider just visiting for the day I have to say that there is also a lot

ee how "dirty" the city is.

ed and are great. It is a dilemma due to the historical value of the mill buildings but much of downtown is extremely old.

more attractive to attract visitors, business and even new residents.

as well as finding ways to prevent the filth.

cles. A beautification project could be launched to encourage litter pick up.


olunteer mission could occur weekly, street-by-street, to collect garbage and make areas look better. If others in the neighborhood see this
of homes are falling apart and are visually unappealing. Some sort of program to either enforce landlord responsibilities or help assist hom
er. But a bit of streetfront cleanup would benefit some neighborhoods - the empty commercial buildings near the city center, for example.
cleaning up after our pets? Even just promoting it? There is also trash all over streets and public spaces and along canals. There should be
tem, as the owners don't have a vested interest in Lowell.
(ie instead of pushing trash to a different place).

es and behavior, which is much trickier to tackle.

e to say that there is also a lot homeless and people in need wondering around the city. The Rivers such as the Merrimack and the Concor

in the neighborhood see this happening, perhaps they will also join in.
ponsibilities or help assist homeowners with exterior maintenance of their homes would be helpful, but I imagine also expensive.
he city center, for example.
along canals. There should be clean up! The city should be taking care of that, or at least they should reach out to nonprofits for volunteer h
he Merrimack and the Concord are just a mess to say the least.

ne also expensive.
ut to nonprofits for volunteer help.
Lowell Emergent Generation

Do you have the opportunity to walk/bike/use public transport as often as you would like?

Response Response
Answer Options
Percent Count
Yes 47.9% 45
No 52.1% 49
answered question 94
skipped question 22
Yes
No
Lowell Emergent Generation

If no, why not and do you have any recommendations?

Response
Answer Options
Count
45
answered question 45
skipped question 71

Categorie
Number Response Date Response Text
s
1 Apr 7, 2011 12:45 AM I like to bike, however, bike lanes would greatly improve things. a pa
2 Apr 7, 2011 1:31 AM Urban design matters a lot. We need consistent architecture and de
3 Apr 7, 2011 2:33 AM I feel like I am taking my life in my hands when I bike to work becaus
4 Apr 7, 2011 2:59 AM Bike lanes, public bike locks, public bike rentals. Move bus terminal,
5 Apr 7, 2011 12:14 PM where are the Bus Schedules? they need to be visible at every stop
6 Apr 7, 2011 3:39 PM IRecommendations:_x000D_
don't live in Lowell, first and foremost. But for those who do, the bu
7 Apr 7, 2011 3:52 PM - Have bike lanes (at least in downtown and around UML)
8 Apr 7, 2011 6:05 PM I have no problem walking. I don't bike much, but I think that bicycle
9 Apr 7, 2011 6:41 PM The sidewalks are not properly cleared in the winter, some sidewalk
10 Apr 7, 2011 6:57 PM Just
Wouldnolike
timetowith
see work
morefor
dedicated bike lanes if possible. I bike to the
walking/biking._x000D_
11 Apr 8, 2011 12:18 PM Biking downtown seems dangerous too.
12 Apr 8, 2011 3:41 PM start with the canals and river and work outward. the canals should b
13 Apr 9, 2011 12:15 PM I do not use public transportation but I used to use it every day in hig
14 Apr 11, 2011 3:22 PM I walk on a daily basis and am able to do so because of the proximit
15 Apr 12, 2011 8:21 PM There is always traffic downtown.
16 Apr 13, 2011 3:22 PM There is a need for bike lanes and buses that run later. I would like
17 Apr 13, 2011 4:16 PM I avoid public transportation like the plague in any city. I am an avid
18 Apr 17, 2011 4:29 PM Coming from Boston I used to ride my bike everywhere because peo
19 Apr 17, 2011 6:15 PM the buses should be more affordable and have more regular schedu
20 Apr 17, 2011 6:57 PM I've never used the public transportation because it's unreliable. I mo
21 Apr 18, 2011 4:48 AM don't always feel safe at night walking because of dodgy bars that ca
22 Apr 18, 2011 12:38 PM Cars believe they have the right of way. Pedestrians believe they ar
23 Apr 18, 2011 1:32 PM The bus could run later, and more often on the weekends.
24 Apr 18, 2011 4:06 PM I'm always driving.
25 Apr 18, 2011 4:21 PM times for public transportation need to be expanded, more bike trails
26 Apr 18, 2011 6:16 PM City design gives much greater deference to personal vehicles and l
27 Apr 18, 2011 9:03 PM I don't feel safe and the public transport don't run often enough.
28 Apr 18, 2011 9:34 PM but still, I think bike lanes would be a really great improvement
29 Apr 19, 2011 1:34 AM too dangerous with the way people drive downtown- would like to se
30 Apr 19, 2011 2:07 PM I do not desire to use public transportation. I do have the opportunit
31 Apr 19, 2011 2:18 PM Not enough bike paths. Streets downtown are too narrow and road t
32 Apr 19, 2011 2:46 PM I do my best to not walk in the city at night as a general precaution
33 Apr 19, 2011 3:05 PM There is no real reason to do so. Parking is ample at the places I wa
34 Apr 19, 2011 3:58 PM Add sidewalks to make it safer in Pawtucketville.
35 Apr 19, 2011 4:47 PM No side walks.
36 Apr 19, 2011 4:55 PM lack of time.
37 Apr 19, 2011 5:18 PM Bike Lane would make it easier for a biking culture to develop aroun
38 Apr 19, 2011 6:55 PM I don't feel safe biking on the street in Lowell. Both a lack of bike lan
39 Apr 19, 2011 7:28 PM I never use public transportation (and the schedule is horrible) but d
40 Apr 20, 2011 2:38 PM the timing does not permit and the distance/destination of where I w
41 Apr 20, 2011 5:20 PM I guess better street design and general layout would improve safety
42 Apr 20, 2011 5:43 PM Because I live outside of Lowell and usually have to drive to work. It
43 Apr 21, 2011 12:07 AM Downtown needs to be more walkable/bikeable, creating lanes for b
44 Apr 21, 2011 4:03 PM The commuter rail train doesn't run very often at all. It only runs ever
45 Apr 21, 2011 11:21 PM I have to work outside the city.
uld greatly improve things. a path along the concord river would greatly improve access from one part of the city to another.
consistent architecture and design in the neighborhoods, and improved pedestrian/bike amenities.
nds when I bike to work because I have to cross the Lord Overpass and it makes me say "Oh Lord!"
ike rentals. Move bus terminal, have better bus stops downtown, better route maps.
need to be visible at every stop!
st. But for those who do, the bus system needs to be improved to extend more hours and increase accessability. A better regional transpor
wn and around UML)
e much, but I think that bicycle safety is a concern for many people; there simply isn't enough space on many of the roads for people to feel
ed in the winter, some sidewalks are nonexistent, these issues should be solved. Also, buses should work longer hours and go to more plac
eing._x000D_
lanes if possible. I bike to the Commuter Rail and it is treacherous in spots
oo.
rk outward. the canals should be a huge assett to the city. instead, they're usually disgusting despite the valiant efforts of the canalwater cle
I used to use it every day in highschool to get to and from Lowell High.
o do so because of the proximity of my job to my home. I am able to fully take advantage of and enjoy the dowtown area because I reside th

ses that run later. I would like to take the bus between Lowell and Lawrence where I live but it doesn't run late enough in the evening.
lague in any city. I am an avid bike rider and would like to see some bike lanes and less potholes, glass and other trash on the streets. I w
y bike everywhere because people were aware of the riders. The first day in Lowell I was almost hit by a car, who was turning and didn't kno
and have more regular schedules. living in MKE, i see that WAY more people ride the bus than in lowell because it's dependable, clean and
ion because it's unreliable. I mostly walk or bike, because I don't own a car.
g because of dodgy bars that cater to college kids who don't always respect the city
ay. Pedestrians believe they are invincible. Bicyclists are on the sidewalk. The common issue here is that no one really knows what the ru
en on the weekends.

o be expanded, more bike trails/routes


ence to personal vehicles and limited accessibility for pedestrians/cyclists. Existing sidewalks need repair; pedestrian and bike paths shoul
ort don't run often enough.
really great improvement
rive downtown- would like to see crosswalk and speeding infractions enforced more
ation. I do have the opportunity to walk around when i am downtown. I do believe that the public transportation system has very few benef
town are too narrow and road traffic is inconsiderate to pedestrians and bicycle commuters.
night as a general precaution
king is ample at the places I want to go to, and other than going out to eat or drink downtown, there is no reason to visit the downtown area.

biking culture to develop around the city. Perhaps a bike-a-thon would help.
Lowell. Both a lack of bike lanes and what I consider to be extra-crazy drivers are to blame.
the schedule is horrible) but do walk around downtown during the day and at night. The reason I don't walk more in other areas is because
stance/destination of where I want to go.
ral layout would improve safety issues and increase PED/Bike friendliness. Its not as bad as it was once a decade ago.
usually have to drive to work. It's not Lowell's fault, really - MBTA trains are too pricey. The commuter rail station could be a bit better conne
e/bikeable, creating lanes for bikers etc that connect to downtown, Connect the bruce freeman trail to downtown
ery often at all. It only runs every two hours on weekends. This is extremely inconvenient and isolating. I don't walk in Lowell after dark, but
city to another.

lity. A better regional transportation system would be nice, so that I could more options for public transportation on my commute from West

of the roads for people to feel safe when riding. As far as public transportation is concerned - why isn't there a bus that goes down Pawtuc
nger hours and go to more places.

ant efforts of the canalwater cleaners. also target the elementary schools and stigmatize polluters the way that smoking has been stigmatize

town area because I reside there as well. I do share a vehicle with my spouse and would like to use public transportation during times when

te enough in the evening.


other trash on the streets. I would also like to see some incentives for bicycle commuters who live/work in Lowell.
who was turning and didn't know the rules of bike riding. I think that bring awareness to bike riders or designated bike lanes in main areas w
ause it's dependable, clean and convenient.

o one really knows what the rules and regulations are to co-exist safely. The "share the road" initiative that details on how to co-exist can be

edestrian and bike paths should be incorporated into the downtown infrastructure, especially.

on system has very few benefits when it comes to connecting different parts of the city.

on to visit the downtown area.


more in other areas is because I do not feel safe enough to do so.

on could be a bit better connected to downtown, though. It would be great to see some legit light rail in Lowell!

walk in Lowell after dark, but I don't see what can be done about this. It's just not safe.
on on my commute from Westford.

a bus that goes down Pawtucket Blvd., for example? In general, I think more clearly marked bus stops and broader routes for the LRTA wo

at smoking has been stigmatized. not cool.

ansportation during times when my vehicle is unavailable but I feel that hours of service do not allow me to use transportation to get to and f

ted bike lanes in main areas would be a great start.

tails on how to co-exist can be very helpful.


broader routes for the LRTA would be great. I also think it would be fabulous if there was a way to get to the airport (Logan) directly from Lo

e transportation to get to and from early morning or evening meetings in different areas of the city. The weekend schedule is also frustrating
irport (Logan) directly from Lowell.

end schedule is also frustrating.


Lowell Emergent Generation

Do you/would you send your children to Lowell Public Schools?

Response Response
Answer Options
Percent Count
Yes 59.3% 54
No 40.7% 37
answered question 91
skipped question 25
Yes
No
Lowell Emergent Generation

If no, why not and do you have any recommendations?

Response
Answer Options
Count
42
answered question 42
skipped question 74

Categorie
Number Response Date Response Text
s
1 Apr 7, 2011 12:45 AM I will due to limited other options. The school system seems to be o
2 Apr 7, 2011 1:12 AM I'm a product of this city's public education. We need more after-sch
3 Apr 7, 2011 1:31 AM Diversity is important to me.
4 Apr 7, 2011 2:59 AM I don't have children.
5 Apr 7, 2011 3:39 PM Again, I don't live in Lowell, but part of my hesitation of buying a hom
6 Apr 7, 2011 5:24 PM Vilonce, wants the best for child
7 Apr 7, 2011 6:05 PM I don't have children, but I think this is important to note. I work with
8 Apr 7, 2011 6:35 PM Lowell Public schools are ranked in the bottom 5 across the state. I
9 Apr 7, 2011 6:57 PM I don't have kids, but I have heard that they are not good.
10 Apr 7, 2011 7:44 PM I prefrer the private schools because of the size and ability to comm
11 Apr 7, 2011 8:38 PM By many accounts, the school ratings are horrendous. I'm torn at th
12 Apr 7, 2011 9:06 PM Way too large at the high school. too easy to get wrapped up in viole
13 Apr 8, 2011 12:09 AM I don't want my kid around gangs and teachers who don't care
14 Apr 8, 2011 3:41 PM I answered no because our only child isn't old enough. As far as wh
15 Apr 11, 2011 3:22 PM I would send my children to public schools up until High School. I do
16 Apr 12, 2011 3:41 PM From what I hear, students are not held up to high standards, and ne
17 Apr 13, 2011 3:22 PM I would send them to elementary and middle school but would hesita
18 Apr 13, 2011 4:16 PM I will never have children
19 Apr 17, 2011 4:29 PM I feel that the classroom sizes are too large for students of that age t
20 Apr 17, 2011 9:54 PM I feel as though the school does not set students up to succeed but
21 Apr 17, 2011 11:06 PM Don't have any children. Would consider it.
22 Apr 18, 2011 4:48 AM issues of violence, gangs, racism.
23 Apr 18, 2011 12:38 PM Not private schools either. Instead of just focusing on passing tests
24 Apr 18, 2011 4:06 PM I don't see why not.
25 Apr 18, 2011 4:21 PM school curriculum need to be more diverse, incorporating perspectiv
26 Apr 18, 2011 9:03 PM I don't have any children and if I do, I'm not sure whether I'll trust the
27 Apr 18, 2011 9:34 PM we have always intended to homeschool, but I think that the diversit
28 Apr 18, 2011 11:46 PM Lack of parent involvement/ school officials place priority on politics
29 Apr 19, 2011 1:13 AM Not enough individualized attention
30 Apr 19, 2011 11:50 AM no kids
31 Apr 19, 2011 2:10 PM I share custody and he goes to school in another town right now. he
32 Apr 19, 2011 2:18 PM Lack of administrative leadership, inability to upkeep school facilities
33 Apr 19, 2011 2:46 PM IRail
do not have
trails children.
_x000D_
34 Apr 19, 2011 3:15 PM Better MBTA system (No Boston transfer hubs)
35 Apr 19, 2011 5:18 PM Public school system is over burdened by the lack of funds to provid
36 Apr 19, 2011 7:28 PM non-applicable.
37 Apr 20, 2011 5:20 PM None really, I currently don't live close enough to LPS to send childr
38 Apr 20, 2011 5:43 PM N/A
39 Apr 21, 2011 12:07 AM Over populated not enough one on one with students
40 Apr 21, 2011 4:03 PM I didn't go to school in Lowell, but I know smart people who graduate
41 Apr 21, 2011 4:38 PM System is inefficient and students are lost through the system becau
42 Apr 22, 2011 4:35 PM This is a tough question that I am still trying to figure out as my son i
e school system seems to be obviously struggling, over extended, and too large.
ation. We need more after-school programs for the diversity of the city. But any new program would have to be innovative and self-sustaina

f my hesitation of buying a home in Lowell was the LPS.

s important to note. I work with the School Department professionally, and so I am aware of the real challenges and strengths of the schools
he bottom 5 across the state. I would rather give my kids an opportunity to go to a well rank school where they are challended and not held
at they are not good.
of the size and ability to communicate with the staff. I also love the curriculum at the private school my son is attending this fall.
s are horrendous. I'm torn at the moment, having a young child. On the one hand, I feel like she could benefit from a large school system a
easy to get wrapped up in violence or get lost.
d teachers who don't care
isn't old enough. As far as whether we would, that remains to be seen. We're definitely wary.
hools up until High School. I do believe that Lowell High is a good school and that a diploma from there does provider teens with education
eld up to high standards, and need to be challenged, disciplined, and encouraged more.
middle school but would hesitate to send them to the high school. It's too big and students get lost in the cracks.

large for students of that age to learn in. Also, I don't like that the high school is an open campus, I see kids walking around downtown all d
set students up to succeed but rather fail or just get by.

just focusing on passing tests or how to win the game (cram for a test, pass, and forget about the materials), focus on LEARNING.

verse, incorporating perspective from different cultures, also human development, sex ed, early childhood development, parenting, money m
m not sure whether I'll trust the schools here to educate my child. It is my hope that steps will be taken to ensure that the students attending
hool, but I think that the diversity of Lowell's schools is really attractive. also, as there is rarely an opportunity to say this, I care very, very littl
ficials place priority on politics not education

ol in another town right now. he wants to finish the school yar there. Otherwise I would have no issue.
bility to upkeep school facilities.

d by the lack of funds to provide a higher teacher to student ratio.

e enough to LPS to send children, but would consider. I guess it depends on class sizing and quality of teaching/faculty staff, as well as, opp
one with students
now smart people who graduated from Lowell High. I suspect there is much to be improved, but I don't really know specifics.
e lost through the system because of budget cuts, no capacity, no support for teachers or students
trying to figure out as my son is only 1.5 years old.
e innovative and self-sustainable from concept. (The survey window is quite small suggesting that my answer be a short one)

s and strengths of the schools. That being said, there are some schools in Lowell to which I would not send a child. I just know that I would
y are challended and not held back by a lack of goverment funding or by the educational levels of other students.

attending this fall.


t from a large school system and variety of activities to take advantage of; on the other hand, I worry that she will be surrounded by a large p

provider teens with education needed to succeed in college. I am not impressed by the size of the school and the ratio of students to staff to

walking around downtown all day long, smoking ans hanging out with their friends.

focus on LEARNING.

velopment, parenting, money management, and goal setting should be part of foundation classes
ure that the students attending Lowell Public Schools would no longer be languishing in an educational environment that is substandard. I t
o say this, I care very, very little about a school's test scores, and i think that many parents actually share this sentiment. what parents want

ng/faculty staff, as well as, opportunities for growth beyond the generic high school curriculum standards.
now specifics.
r be a short one)

a child. I just know that I would have a choice. I think this is a matter of education (of the parents).

will be surrounded by a large population of students that are discouraged and hopeless and believe that education isn't important. That kin

the ratio of students to staff to offer additional support via guidance counselors for SAT/ACT exam prep and educatuion, emphasis and sup

onment that is substandard. I think you need a school committee that represent a group of diverse and talented individuals who are committ
sentiment. what parents want is a place that is safe and warm and welcoming. if the test scores are great, then great, but it really is a secon
cation isn't important. That kind of depressed/hopeless attitude can eventually erode one's own belief that education and learning is necess

educatuion, emphasis and support through college application process.

d individuals who are committed to providing the governance needed to ensure the school's success and that as a group, they are concern
en great, but it really is a secondary issue.
ucation and learning is necessary for success in life. I want my children to be surrounded by children that are engaged, who have active an

t as a group, they are concerned first and foremost with the academic success of the the school. I'm not sure if it's done now, but asking for
engaged, who have active and engaged parents and teachers, and I'm not sure that that is "normal" in the Lowell Public School system at t

if it's done now, but asking for regular reports of academic progress and work underway is important to ensure that the cirricular and instruc
owell Public School system at the moment.

e that the cirricular and instructional practices are rigorous, aligned to the standards, address the needs of ALL students.
Lowell Emergent Generation

Do you shop downtown or go out in Lowell on the weekends?

Response Response
Answer Options
Percent Count
Always 19.1% 18
Never 5.3% 5
Sometimes 75.5% 71
answered question 94
skipped question 22
Always
Never
Sometimes
Lowell Emergent Generation

If not always, why not and do you have any recommendations?

Response
Answer Options
Count
53
answered question 53
skipped question 63

Categorie
Number Response Date Response Text
s
1 Apr 7, 2011 12:16 AM I love live music, and go into Boston/Cambridge often to hear jazz,b
2 Apr 7, 2011 12:44 AM I wish that there were classier places to go out for the 20-something
3 Apr 7, 2011 12:45 AM I do not do a lot of recreational shopping. Mostly, I enjoy the art ope
4 Apr 7, 2011 1:31 AM Need more "3rd places" in the city
5 Apr 7, 2011 1:37 AM Taxes
6 Apr 7, 2011 2:33 AM If businesses (not just bars) stayed open later, I would sit in coffee s
7 Apr 7, 2011 2:59 AM It's not the shortage of options, it's the shortage of style. Limited to r
8 Apr 7, 2011 12:14 PM personal budgeting
9 Apr 7, 2011 3:39 PM When I worked downtown, I was always spending money there. Par
10 Apr 7, 2011 6:05 PM I do, but it would be great if there were more choices. I think that mo
11 Apr 7, 2011 6:35 PM I enjoy going out in Lowell. The only reason I am not always here is
12 Apr 7, 2011 6:41 PM The stores have erratic hours, they are not open after normal workin
13 Apr 7, 2011 7:44 PM I like to stay home on the weekends and limit my shoppping to the th
14 Apr 7, 2011 8:38 PM As far as shopping goes, I don't feel like there are many options for m
15 Apr 8, 2011 12:09 AM Stores do not appeal to me and ate too expensive. I rather shop onli
16 Apr 8, 2011 12:18 PM Time issues
17 Apr 8, 2011 3:41 PM I think there should be a category between "Sometimes" and "Alway
18 Apr 8, 2011 4:50 PM Fix the cranky street systems
19 Apr 11, 2011 7:19 PM Live in Chelmsford, work in Lowell. I have choices in my community.
20 Apr 12, 2011 3:41 PM If I felt safe, I would be more likely to.
21 Apr 13, 2011 4:16 PM I don't drink and the nightlife is pitifully boring without being intoxicat
22 Apr 15, 2011 12:02 AM I find hours of many stores challenging. We do go to restaurants.
23 Apr 17, 2011 6:15 PM when i would go out on weekends, i would go downtown. i think it's i
24 Apr 17, 2011 9:54 PM I split my outings between Nashua, Lowell, Boston and Manchester.
25 Apr 17, 2011 11:06 PM There are many good things about downtown but there seems to be
26 Apr 17, 2011 11:07 PM close off middle streets on weekends for walking traffic and bigger o
27 Apr 17, 2011 11:41 PM likes to go into boston sometimes
28 Apr 18, 2011 2:55 AM I often go out to eat/bars, but many stores seem to close very early.
29 Apr 18, 2011 3:25 AM Lack of convenient parking and not enough stores of interest
30 Apr 18, 2011 12:38 PM it's not as lively as I wish it could be. downtown isn't the first place I
31 Apr 18, 2011 4:06 PM There are times that I come more often, but I do think Lowell has a lo
32 Apr 18, 2011 4:21 PM product selection/types of stores are limited, expand the diversity of
33 Apr 18, 2011 11:59 PM no
34 Apr 19, 2011 1:41 AM More variety, although this has improved quite a bit. :-)
35 Apr 19, 2011 11:30 AM Stores dont have what I'm looking for. If I go out I go downtown.
36 Apr 19, 2011 2:04 PM parking is a pain, not a lot of places to shop. We need to well known
37 Apr 19, 2011 2:07 PM I enjoy gonig out in Lowell on the weekends with friends, however th
38 Apr 19, 2011 2:10 PM I love Downtown!
39 Apr 19, 2011 2:46 PM Parking is an issue and I work downtown so I often stay away on we
40 Apr 19, 2011 3:05 PM There are no real shopping draws downtown. Again, bold strokes ar
41 Apr 19, 2011 3:15 PM I live outside of Lowell and commute to work
42 Apr 19, 2011 4:20 PM I've never shopped here in lowell, because there aren't any stores a
43 Apr 19, 2011 4:55 PM not many options to shop. love to go out to dinner in lowell.
44 Apr 19, 2011 6:57 PM I like some shops around Lowell, but I feel parking is kind of annoyin
45 Apr 19, 2011 7:28 PM It's nice to go to other places and get out of the city. And, I don't wa
46 Apr 19, 2011 9:15 PM I go out to eat on occaision in downtown Lowell, and I sometimes sh
47 Apr 20, 2011 2:20 AM Very little seems to go on at night, even in downtown.
48 Apr 20, 2011 5:20 PM Lack of available cash, tough economy. Downtown looks great today
49 Apr 20, 2011 5:43 PM Not in town often on the weekends since I commute in for work, but
50 Apr 20, 2011 6:22 PM don't always go out in lowell on weekends because we like to switch
51 Apr 21, 2011 4:03 PM It would be nice if there were more stores downtown, like more cloth
52 Apr 21, 2011 4:38 PM There's not that many affordable shops that are geared to younger g
53 Apr 21, 2011 11:21 PM I don't go shopping too often. There are not a lot of shops consisten
Cambridge often to hear jazz,blues, and other stuff Lowell's pubs aren't real;y offering. I would LOVE to be able to go out to places in Lowel
to go out for the 20-something. A venue that didn't play top 40 music with a dirty dance floor would be nice. As for shopping, there's not mu
ing. Mostly, I enjoy the art openings downtown. If the trolley park had a wider play area and benches that faced the play structure(S) then

pen later, I would sit in coffee shops, and do all kinds of stuff during the week and on weekends.
e shortage of style. Limited to restaurants and bars. I would like to do more recreational activities than eating and drinking. Shopping doesn

ays spending money there. Parking is an issue, and some type of a local market, or many small different ethnic and farmers markets would
e more choices. I think that more needs to be done to ensure that the business that come can stay.
reason I am not always here is because I go to my parents or boyfriends homes frequently.
re not open after normal working hours, they are not near clean places, sometimes I do not like the aesthetic of the place. These are issues
and limit my shoppping to the things I need.
ike there are many options for me downtown. The types of stores that I'd be interested in just don't exist, and I don't know if they could exis
oo expensive. I rather shop online. Would like to see a more accessible grocery story aside from ghetto basket

ween "Sometimes" and "Always". Always implies always. We don't have the money or time to always do something on weekends, regardle

have choices in my community. Promote a more robust/dynamic downtown.

y boring without being intoxicated.


ng. We do go to restaurants.
would go downtown. i think it's important to build up downtown, but also to realize that it is not the whole city, though.
owell, Boston and Manchester. I do not shop in downtown because the shops are geared more towards the really young population and the
owntown but there seems to be a lack of live music venues.
for walking traffic and bigger outdoor seating areas or outdoor music

ores seem to close very early.


nough stores of interest
downtown isn't the first place I think of when I want to go shopping for groceries, for coffee, or clothes. there are shops that are wonderful b
en, but I do think Lowell has a lot to offer. It might be a little drive from my house, but it's worth the wait.
limited, expand the diversity of businesses in the area...there are more restaurants than anything else...downtown area is small with not ma

ved quite a bit. :-)


. If I go out I go downtown.
o shop. We need to well known retailers downtown. food and drinks, we have plenty of but there isnt much reason to come downtown on th
ekends with friends, however there is not enough draw by the above college aged crowd to the city. Getting more of the 24-35 year old crow
own so I often stay away on weekends.
wntown. Again, bold strokes are needed to bring people downtown for reasons other than drinking or eating. The downtown area needs anc

cause there aren't any stores appaeling to me. I go out almost every weekend.
out to dinner in lowell.
I feel parking is kind of annoying in Downtown. I don't mind going out in Lowell, but I get annoyed by underage college kids going to the loc
out of the city. And, I don't want to return to the same places all the time.
wn Lowell, and I sometimes shop at the Market St. Market. Other than that I don't think there are very many businesses/shops downtown th
en in downtown.
my. Downtown looks great today, additional construction and preservation adds nice touch, plus, commercial interests are still very affordabl
nce I commute in for work, but I do get lunch or drinks and run errands downtown.
ends because we like to switch up the scenery and sometimes the crowds can get very young and rowdy at certain establishments downtow
ores downtown, like more clothing and shoe stores. I also have other places that I go.. into Boston, Cambridge, etc. Downtown Lowell is rat
ps that are geared to younger generation.
are not a lot of shops consistent with what I do go shopping for. I would like to go more if I have the time though.
le to go out to places in Lowell like the Cantab Lounge or Wally's in Cambridge.
s for shopping, there's not much to shop at in downtown Lowell.
ced the play structure(S) then I would be MUCH more attracted to going downtown frequently. Same for if the Kerouac park had a fence the

and drinking. Shopping doesn't count! More music venues, more bike paths, cyber cafe, etc

ic and farmers markets would be a great attraction for people.

of the place. These are issues that are for private business owners so my recommendations would have more to do with their interior desig

I don't know if they could exist downtown. I'd love to see more consignment shops, unique clothing boutiques, used book stores, shops ge

mething on weekends, regardless of where. Entertainment-wise, I can live a fulfilling life in Lowell. Shopping-wise, there's not much for me

eally young population and there is not enough shopping for young professionals.

are shops that are wonderful but it's never been first on my list. the perception has to change. i get weekly emails but how do other residen

own area is small with not many interesting places to visit

ason to come downtown on the weekends during the day, unless there is a festival of some sort. Perhaps do free weekend concerts on Pa
more of the 24-35 year old crowd would make coming out more fun as many times if you are not at a college bar than it is somewhat dead.
The downtown area needs anchor stores, whether chains or local, and a consistent attraction to motivate visitors. The folk festival and summ

e college kids going to the local bars. I can't recommend anything about the local college students that bother me, but parking could be bett

businesses/shops downtown that I am interested in. I would shop at a pet supply store and thrift stores if they were located downtown. Also,

nterests are still very affordable for the average consumer. Affordability and diversity is key to remain dynamic (in the market) and sustainab

ertain establishments downtown but Lowell has added some pretty cool low key restaurants/establishments with great food/entertainment
e, etc. Downtown Lowell is rather small, but nice.
e Kerouac park had a fence the road. It would make it a much safer space to hang out - and then perhaps spend - as a family.

e to do with their interior design and exterior.

s, used book stores, shops geared toward children and games, flea-markets, open-air farmers markets and more artisan shops (similar to h

wise, there's not much for me downtown. As far as recommendations, I would join the chorus of those who long for a Trader Joe's, a movie

mails but how do other residents get their information about "specials" and events going on in downtown? perhaps start there - promoting e

free weekend concerts on Palmer st./ Middle st. shut the street down.
ar than it is somewhat dead.
ors. The folk festival and summer music series are great, but what about the rest of the year? Again, there is a lack of will to take the steps

r me, but parking could be better. There are so many restrictions for parking, I feel like the downtown banks should just allow everyone to pa

were located downtown. Also, if traffic wasn't an issue most of the time I'd be more likely to stop downtown while I'm running errands, but I u

c (in the market) and sustainable.

with great food/entertainment


end - as a family.

more artisan shops (similar to haymarket square in Boston. The downtown right now is pretty boring and full of empty store-fronts. As far as

ong for a Trader Joe's, a movie house, a book store, and a SANDWICH place. Where can I get a friggin' sandwich in this city, seriously? I'm

rhaps start there - promoting events through mixed media.


a lack of will to take the steps necessary to achieve the goal that everyone professes publicly.

hould just allow everyone to park after hours and there shouldn't be any consequences. The parking garage is not that expensive but not qu

hile I'm running errands, but I usually avoid downtwon for that reason, unless I'm walking/biking.
f empty store-fronts. As far as night-life, I'd love to see a small-scale movie theatre that shows more obscure films, more live music options

dwich in this city, seriously? I'm not talking meatball parm or some shit like that. I'm talking the types of sandwiches they used to serve at O
s not that expensive but not quite directly next to any places I would feel comfortable walking alone in down town Lowell at night, being a 24
films, more live music options like the Backpage, and a lot more venues for displaying artwork.

wiches they used to serve at Olive That and More. Life Alive is good, but sometimes an appetite calls for MEAT in a sandwich.
own Lowell at night, being a 24 yr old female.
AT in a sandwich.
Lowell Emergent Generation
All of the following considerations are important in deciding where and how to live. Starting with 1 as the MOST important and
important, rate these considerations as they play into your decision making process about coming and staying in Lowell. (if the
that is a top 5 for you, list under other and give it a rating)
Answer Options 1 2 3

Family considerations
Social/cultural (places
opportunities to play and
(museums, schools)
places to eat at 31 18 14
night, existence of social scene, etc.) 26 25 17
Trash andconsiderations
Financial crime within the city
(affordability and availability of 25 24 18
housing,opportunities
Career pay rates for(availability
salaries, etc.)
of jobs, opportunities for 35 27 16
growth, etc.) 30 21 20
Other 5 3 11
a
1 as the MOST important and leading to 5 as the LEAST
g and staying in Lowell. (if there is a consideration not listed

Response
4 5
Count
11 17 91
13 11 92
16 9 92
8 5 91
14 7 92
4 4 27
answered question 92
skipped question 24

1
2
3
4
5
1
2
3
4
5
Lowell Emergent Generation

Based on your top 2 considerations, does Lowell currently satisfy your needs?

Response Response
Answer Options
Percent Count
Yes 51.6% 47
No 48.4% 44
answered question 91
skipped question 25
Yes
No
Lowell Emergent Generation

If no, what would have to change for your needs to be met in Lowell?

Response
Answer Options
Count
47
answered question 47
skipped question 69

Categorie
Number Response Date Response Text
s
1 Apr 7, 2011 12:47 AM Of
An course,
availability
the in moresystem
school paying seems
artistic very
jobs strained
and a cleaner social
and over scene
extende
2 Apr 7, 2011 1:02 AM Food security also matters - we would like to have access to fresh, lo
3 Apr 7, 2011 12:19 PM local cultural newspaper/publication that highlights events, more you
4 Apr 7, 2011 2:23 PM We need to work together to prioritize what's important for the future
5 Apr 7, 2011 4:03 PM Better options for first time home buyers that qualify for 40B affordab
6 Apr 7, 2011 5:41 PM safety and value of education
7 Apr 7, 2011 6:09 PM It meets my needs right now, but I am concerned about my ability to
8 Apr 7, 2011 6:32 PM more security around some neighborhoods...
9 Apr 7, 2011 6:45 PM It would have to have better transport to and fro Boston and more fre
10 Apr 7, 2011 8:16 PM less crime, more jobs
11 Apr 7, 2011 8:56 PM Ultimately, poverty needs to be addressed in Lowell. Poverty, due to
12 Apr 8, 2011 12:14 AM Less crime and better schools.
13 Apr 8, 2011 3:46 PM Many people tell me the schools are fine; I am unconvinced. That's
14 Apr 8, 2011 4:54 PM Have downtown accessible street wise and time wise
15 Apr 9, 2011 12:22 PM I am currently satisfied as a single 24-year old woman, but would no
16 Apr 11, 2011 3:35 PM I am currently employed and find that my current position is an exce
17 Apr 12, 2011 3:48 PM Less
More Crime,
variety Better
in nightSchools
life, entertainment, etc. _x000D_
18 Apr 13, 2011 4:19 PM Sincere cleanup efforts and neighborhood outreach.
19 Apr 15, 2011 12:05 AM I'm struggling with the schools right now. They are getting better, bu
20 Apr 17, 2011 4:36 PM While the housing in Lowell is affordable there is a lack available job
21 Apr 17, 2011 6:19 PM more jobs would be great, but i think that's the refrain everywhere rig
22 Apr 17, 2011 9:57 PM Safer playgrounds and better reputation for schools.
23 Apr 18, 2011 3:31 AM I would prefer to live outside of a city as opposed to in it
24 Apr 18, 2011 4:50 AM _x000D_
more working artists and small businesses
25 Apr 18, 2011 1:40 PM Trash: when we focus on making this city "YOUR" city, then perhaps
26 Apr 18, 2011 4:13 PM Trash and crime within the city I believe are not met. Everytime I see
27 Apr 18, 2011 4:30 PM better schools/curriculum/teachers...and expanded and more interes
28 Apr 18, 2011 6:22 PM Less litter and crime; greater accessibility and less traffic.
29 Apr 19, 2011 1:16 AM Education
30 Apr 19, 2011 1:36 AM More affordable, but not low-income, housing.
31 Apr 19, 2011 11:37 AM No, but I dont have c hildren yet. I'm hoping by the time I have kids
32 Apr 19, 2011 12:47 PM As a person without children I would happily live in Lowell. However
33 Apr 19, 2011 2:18 PM When considering raising a family in the future I would be more likel
34 Apr 19, 2011 2:21 PM I believe that we need to better manage the public open spaces and
35 Apr 19, 2011 2:32 PM It does for right now, but I am not confident it will forever.
36 Apr 19, 2011 3:08 PM In terms of trash, there is an inordinant amount in the canals and on
37 Apr 19, 2011 3:18 PM More of an 18 hour communty vs. todays empty downtown at night
38 Apr 19, 2011 4:55 PM Unfortunately my LEAST decision also reflects my MOST important
39 Apr 19, 2011 5:48 PM Bettering the public school system
40 Apr 19, 2011 7:13 PM Economy, I feel as someone that wants to work in the education field
41 Apr 20, 2011 2:26 AM This is a question that requires a complex answer. More affluent, wh
42 Apr 20, 2011 2:45 PM More jobs within Lowell would be nice. I would rather stay within the
43 Apr 20, 2011 5:54 PM We're a bit spoiled in terms of crime - we live in an extremely safe ne
44 Apr 20, 2011 6:30 PM Put the TD Garden in Lowell
45 Apr 21, 2011 12:11 AM Yes and no, we are working on both issues but more effort could be
46 Apr 21, 2011 4:11 PM Trash and crime are the biggest problem. It doesn't feel safe without
47 Apr 21, 2011 4:41 PM School systen would have to change
jobs strained
very and a cleaner social
and over scene would
extended. need to change.
_x000D_
d like to have access to fresh, local food for a reasonable price as a family. We would like to have an easier time growing out own and keep
hat highlights events, more young people, more accessibility to making change within city politics (less old boys clubs). competitive salarie
e what's important for the future of Lowell, the youth.
ers that qualify for 40B affordable housing lotteries. When we were looking to buy a home, we barely qualified for the affordable housing lot

m concerned about my ability to remain employed in Lowell if I decide to look for a new job. Also, crime is a concern of mine because we mo

to and fro Boston and more frequent connections there. It would need to have better public transport.

essed in Lowell. Poverty, due to lack of opportunities, leads to crime and fosters a lack of self-worth and hopelessness, which leads to trash

fine; I am unconvinced. That's the biggest thing for us.


se and time wise
-year old woman, but would not object to looking into other cities and towns for future needs.
my current position is an excellent fit for me career wise. My concern is that when I am interested in seeking a different job I will not be able
nt, etc. _x000D_
hood outreach.
ow. They are getting better, but have a lot of room for improvements.
ble there is a lack available jobs. I would try to market to companies about more or starting a new branch here. Maybe give a tax break thei
that's the refrain everywhere right now
on for schools.
as opposed to in it

city "YOUR" city, then perhaps people care a lot more about their environment?
ve are not met. Everytime I see Lowell in the news is about some shooting or something like it. That's not good to the city's image.
and expanded and more interesting social/cultural scene
bility and less traffic.

hoping by the time I have kids Lowell will have certain things fixed.
happily live in Lowell. However, with children I would prefer to live in a town opposed to a city (any city).
the future I would be more likely to live in a suburban setting.
ge the public open spaces and mentor youth to deter vandalism, such as defacing parks and cemeteries.
nfident it will forever.
nt amount in the canals and on sidewalks once you leave Downtown. There is not a ton to do socially in Lowell if you are past the college ph
ays empty downtown at night
o reflects my MOST important one because there is not enough job opportunity in Lowell.

nts to work in the education field, it is very hard to get a job in Lowell.
mplex answer. More affluent, white-collar businesses need to set up in Lowell. To do that, the city needs to improve its self-image in a way th
e. I would rather stay within the city than commute out of the city. Rent is starting to rise. It is starting to get pricey just to find a nice place to
we live in an extremely safe neighborhood where we can walk outside at 3am without looking over our shoulder, and we grew up in rural an

ssues but more effort could be put forth.


lem. It doesn't feel safe without a car.
me growing out own and keeping animals like bees and chickens.
ys clubs). competitive salaries

d for the affordable housing lotteries based on income (we almost made too much money) yet could not afford the homes for sale through lo

ncern of mine because we moved out of downtown because we were robbed twice. I live somewhere very safe now, but am concerned abo

lessness, which leads to trash, and to a belief that education isn't important. I'd love it if the schools found more innovative ways to teach a

a different job I will not be able to find a suitable one (suitable as in compensation, benefits and description) and I will have to work in Bosto

e. Maybe give a tax break their first year in order to get them established.

od to the city's image.

ll if you are past the college phase and not into hip-hop but are still on a budget.
prove its self-image in a way that causes businesses to WANT to locate in Lowell as opposed to being ENTICED to come to Lowell.
cey just to find a nice place to live.
der, and we grew up in rural and suburban areas with even less crime ... so Lowell may not be that bad compared to a lot of places, but ther
d the homes for sale through lottery in Lowell. Westford had the lowest prices for affordable housing lotteries in the region, which is why we

e now, but am concerned about my options should we decide to move. In other words, I'm satisfied now, but unsure of the viability of a futu

ore innovative ways to teach as well, so that kids could actually enjoy the process of learning - using technology and new media as teaching

and I will have to work in Boston. Like many in the city, I have done the commute to Boston and am not interested in it. I would need to see t
ED to come to Lowell.

ared to a lot of places, but there's more crime here than we're used to. I also still don't have a great bead on the social/cultural scene here. A
in the region, which is why we ended up there. The fact that Westford has great schools is an added benefit. However, I was working in Lo

unsure of the viability of a future living and working in Lowell.

gy and new media as teaching tools, enabling teachers to provide more individualized help to those that are having trouble with lessons.

sted in it. I would need to see that there are opportunities for employment within the Lowell and the area to feel totally confident that I could
he social/cultural scene here. Affordability is definitely not a problem, but career openings may be a limiting factor. Besides all that, our main
However, I was working in Lowell and would have loved to have lived in Lowell, despite the state of the schools; as a parent I would have b

having trouble with lessons.

el totally confident that I could remain in the city.


ctor. Besides all that, our main issue is needing access to the Boston area.
ols; as a parent I would have been willing to support the schools in Lowell as much as possible had we ended up here.
Lowell Emergent Generation
All of the following ideas are potential ways to provide more opportunities for YOU to get more invested and involved in the city
interest you and 5 as that which would most interest you, rate the following ideas (and add more of your own).

Answer Options 1 2 3

City-wide
and ideas mentoring programs
in the city that incorporates more innovative 15 10 22
technologies
Business and opportunities
incubator programs and for support
social networking
for micro- 10 13 16
enterprises 9 14 19
The creation
Better of a for
marketing weekly independent
the city news
that appeals outlet of our
to people 12 13 23
generation 19 15 15
other 2 2 3
Other (please specify)

Other (please
Number Response Date Categories
specify)
1 Apr 7, 2011 1:02 AM community gardens, an invigorated children's library
2 Apr 7, 2011 1:40 AM In addition to better market, a better range of things to do and places
3 Apr 7, 2011 2:37 AM these are the most confusing directions ever...did you proofread this
4 Apr 7, 2011 12:19 PM more public greenspace for gardening and a more vibrant farmer's m
5 Apr 7, 2011 4:03 PM a community center, similar to the ones in Westford and Chelmsford
6 Apr 7, 2011 6:09 PM Something needs to be done to make people feel that they can choo
7 Apr 8, 2011 3:46 PM I don't think any of these categories encapsulate the need to coordin
8 Apr 18, 2011 4:13 PM Better marketing for the city that appeals to people of all generation
9 Apr 18, 2011 9:40 PM community gardens, bike lanes, and why can't lowell use the river to
10 Apr 19, 2011 11:56 AM promote more ethnic activities and art festivals
11 Apr 19, 2011 3:13 PM A more forceful organization, composed of young professionals, tha
12 Apr 19, 2011 7:34 PM There are current mentoring programs that could be built off of, do n
13 Apr 20, 2011 5:54 PM Events in public spaces after work on weekdays, especially downtow
14 Apr 21, 2011 11:26 PM More opportunities with city boards and commissions
vested and involved in the city. Using the scale of 1 as the idea that would least
of your own).
Response
4 5 6
Count
19 20 2 88
17 18 15 89
25 18 4 89
20 13 7 88
9 22 8 88
2 1 7 17
14
answered question 90
skipped question 26

ldren's library
nge of things to do and places to do them in. The city does a pretty good job of marketing what's available.
s ever...did you proofread this, Derek?
and a more vibrant farmer's market!
s in Westford and Chelmsford that offer activities and learning opportunities for people of all ages, particularly activities for young children on
people feel that they can choose to send their children to school in Lowell!
capsulate the need to coordinate resources, i.e., UML working with downtown business association or the public schools working with group
ls to people of all generations. I personally think that Lowell has a lot to offer, but is not been adversity appropriately. The driving in and ou
hy can't lowell use the river to generate our own power?

d of young professionals, that will advocate for the bold changes needed to drive Lowell's future success, and not just protect the status quo
that could be built off of, do not reinvent or dismiss them!
weekdays, especially downtown. Street fairs, festivals, that sort of thing.
d commissions
1
2
3
4
5
6

ivities for young children on the weekend (as opposed to only during the week for stay-at-home moms)

schools working with groups like Girls Inc./UTEC/etc. I feel there should be more support and coordination between these organizations.
ately. The driving in and out of the city is also a big turn-out for people who is coming to work or visit.

t just protect the status quo.


etween these organizations.
Lowell Emergent Generation
In an ideal city, there would be tons of opportunities for expression, interaction, mobility,
and learning. Using the list below of components of an ideal city, choose the top 5 most
important to you. An Ideal Lowell would be a place where…
Response Response
Answer Options
Percent Count
My opinion is valued 22.0% 20
There is an urban agricultural initiative 26.4% 24
There is access to open space 31.9% 29
There is parking downtown 26.4% 24
The canals are fully utilized (for taxis, ice skating, etc.) 35.2% 32
There is a place to see movies downtown 19.8% 18
is more
There are outside
places to goseating downtown
out at night that rival those in 22.0% 20
Boston 37.4% 34
There is Live Music 29.7% 27
The Farmers Market is vibrant and accessible 38.5% 35
There is a commitment to buying locally for all purchases 17.6% 16
There are no chain stores downtown 9.9% 9
Art is more
There than a commodity,
is a recycle program for itpeople
is a way
who oflive
life in 18.7% 17
apartments/condos 27.5% 25
There is a strong and active gay community 5.5% 5
There
The is WiFi
Lowell everywhere
Folk Festival audience is as diverse as the 17.6% 16
performances 16.5% 15
There
We is aaused
have local bookstore
Americorps-type program that assists 19.8% 18
new immigrants 18.7% 17
Every
We resident
have a safeknows their neighbors
and secure city that is attractive to walk 31.9% 29
and bike
The old social clubs are re-programmed for today’s 69.2% 63
communal space needs. 14.3% 13
There is a vibrant community arts center
continuous walking green strip along the 24.2% 22
canalsisand
There Riverwalk
more stuff like the Conversation with the 30.8% 28
Emergent Generation 19.8% 18
Other (please specify) 12.1% 11
answered question 91
skipped question 25

Other (please
Number Response Date Categories
specify)
1 Apr 7, 2011 1:02 AM The city libary is a hub for meeting and activity for family
2 Apr 7, 2011 1:40 AM I think we need to value the social and cultural heritage of Lowell an
3 Apr 7, 2011 4:03 PM Leadership development programs for all residents, regardless of la
4 Apr 7, 2011 7:49 PM More centers for children to learn and socialize
5 Apr 7, 2011 8:56 PM All of these are important! I can't choose!
6 Apr 8, 2011 3:46 PM I don't have an "Other". I just wanted to note that this list is fantastic
7 Apr 18, 2011 4:30 PM an active and vibrant downtown
8 Apr 19, 2011 11:37 AM more organizations/groups working together.Including city and offici
9 Apr 19, 2011 2:18 PM There is more business opportunity for young professionals to be em
10 Apr 19, 2011 3:13 PM There is vocal and active participation in city planning and developm
11 Apr 20, 2011 2:45 PM Pedestrian friendly open shopping space, more retail stores and mo
ng and activity for family
al and cultural heritage of Lowell and think collectively about a vision for the future across generational gaps. (That may include a place for s
ms for all residents, regardless of language/cultural barriers
n and socialize

nted to note that this list is fantastic and it's quite impossible to pick just five. They would all be perfect and should all be achievable.

ng together.Including city and officials


nity for young professionals to be employed out of college. This is what drives the young group out of the city as the majority of job entry lev
pation in city planning and development by the entire community, and especially young professionals.
ng space, more retail stores and more ethnic diveristy in the downtown market.
(That may include a place for some of the old social clubs to still exist much as they are today).

hould all be achievable.

as the majority of job entry level job opportunities are in Boston. Naturally, this would require a "corporate culture" to come to the city which
lture" to come to the city which would take time and could be looked at negatively by some.

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