Revitalize and Beautify Jerome Ave near Lehman College

What problem would you like to solve?

Students and visitors of Lehman College are concerned about their safety in the portion of Jerome Ave, between Kingsbridge Rd. and Bedford Park Blvd, as it lacks lighting, sanitation, and a pedestrian-friendly environment. Students and visitors usually avoid walking on Jerome, especially at night, per the conditions stated before. These factors also hurt local business success.

Why is it important to solve? Why is it relevant for the community?

Lehman College is the only senior public higher education institution in the Bronx and has been ranked 4th in the nation for upward-social mobility and one of the top Hispanic-serving institutions in the nation. Our campus also has the Lehman Center for the Performing Arts, which serves as a cultural hub for Bronx residents. Research has shown that beautifying an area contributes to lower crime rates as well as attracts businesses to flourish. People come to our campus to learn, work, and engage in community activities and improving the safety and accessibility of the surrounding area will elevate our entire neighborhood.

What idea do you have to address the problem?

We tackle this issue in three ways. 1) Better public lightning. 2) More public art, such as murals that highlight Bronx artists and history. 3) More green areas, such as rain gardens.

Who would that help?

Residents and local businesses of the surrounding community, as well as students, workers, and visitors of Lehman College.

What NYC borough would benefit from your idea?

The Bronx