Launched in 2012 at Drexel University, the Lindy Institute for Urban Innovation is based in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania. It was established as a university-wide hub for developing community initiatives with Drexel and external partners, linking urban problem-solving with student learning, public service and research.24 Its stated mission is to develop strategies that advance cities equitably and prepare future urban leaders through civic engagement and experiential education.6
The Institute’s work is rooted in Philadelphia and the surrounding region, while its university-wide remit includes urban challenges at local, national and global scales.45 Activities include civic planning and design, research, public forums, stakeholder convenings and fellowships. Its Civic Design Studio, for example, works on infrastructure and civic-design challenges in Philadelphia and nearby communities.5
Projects illustrate the Institute’s focus on public space, community participation and inclusive development. In partnership with the Mural Arts Program and Historic Bartram’s Garden, it developed a vision for extending the Schuylkill River Trail to Bartram’s Garden, using art and design to encourage community involvement and trail use.13 Its 2019 Catalyzing Community Capacity report examined barriers to community stewardship of pedestrian plazas, parklets and bicycle corrals, and proposed ways to make such efforts more equitable.9 More recently, the Institute has partnered with The Enterprise Center on an investment prospectus for the Opportunity Zones near the 46th Street Market-Frankford Line station, with an emphasis on community wealth, entrepreneurship and workforce development.11
Harris Steinberg, an urban planning professional, is identified by Drexel as the Institute’s founding executive director; he joined Drexel to lead it in 2014.212