All Ideas

Most Endangered Structures List

Idea:

Create a top 5-10 most endangered structure list to alert Lowell citizens to the threat of demolition of our historic structures. DIY Lowell could solicit nominations from the public at-large and then create publicity through local media and present the list to the Lowell historic board and city council.
Benefit:

It would create public awareness that many historic buildings are under constant threat of demolition by neglect. It could motivate public or private interests to rehab these structures. It could become an annual list.
Location:

Don't Know.

Tiki Boats on the Canal

Idea:

Have a one-time event partnering with a business or oganization that runs gondolas or tiki boats. Pick a canal that has calm waters and work with the agencies to do a one-time event that would test the feasibility of having people pay for boat rides on a canal. If this is successful, maybe we could [Read more…]

Benefit:

The canals are a under-utilized and under-maintained area in the city. Having a tiki boat, or multiple tiki boats that could run on the canals could provide insentive in keeping them clean, while also creating a fun attraction that could even support tourism in the Summer months.
Location:

Downtown / JAM.

Police Officer Soft Skills Event

Idea:

A community-designed and facilitated outdoor event in which community members and police officers discuss the topic of “the way our kids behave and talk,” to help the officers better understand our community and our children as a way to reduce negative encounters with police.
Benefit:

This would help our police force to be more understanding through many culturally-focused lenses, and in turn make our community feel safer and hopefully allow us to be less worried about our children. Perhaps this event could lead to long-term training series/professional development.
Location:

Citywide.

Lowell Wheelie Bike and Skateboard Competition

Idea:

Have an BMX / Skateboard competition event to see who can pop a wheelie the longest. Set up different age group competitions. Give out trophies and cash prizes. Do it at South Common or one of the skate parks around Lowell.. Maybe bring in a DJ and some food trucks.
Benefit:

It would be a fun positive event for our youth and could attract a big crowd of participants and fans. This could include advance materials and safety tips to show where it’s safe and positive to practice bike tricks (and discourage practicing bike tricks on busy streets).
Location:

Back Central.