Our most recent STEAM Exchange was held on January 24th, 2016 in the newly renovated Research Commons at the 18th Avenue Library on Ohio State's campus. 

The event was well-attended with a diverse audience of over 40 faculty, staff and guests attendance. Dr. Harvey Miller (Director, Center for Urban and Regional Analysis) and Dr. Tijs van Maasakkers (Assistant Professor, City and Regional Planning) spoke about their research under the topic of Sustainable Cities. 

Harvey explained the importance of living within cities rather than in suburbs to decrease the amount of car travel. His research explores the benefits of using rail lines that go beyond city limits to see if the rail reduces the amount of car travel in and out of the city. 

Tijs spoke about the large amount of unused land within cities. His NO/LEX and OH/LEX research connects the parcels of land with non-profits in order to give purpose to the vacant lots. In both New Orleans, Louisiana and Lima, Ohio, Tijs and his team interview local non-profits to find the best fit for the land. 

Afterwards, each Q&A session elaborated on how their research benefits the community, environment and city in which they studied, touching on the many facets of what it takes to create a sustainable city. Mark your calendars for our upcoming February STEAM Exchange, scheduled Thursday, February 25th on the topic of "Cheating."

Written by Chrissy Foltz, STEAM Intern