Civic engagement refers to how actively involved the members of a population are in improving their community. The four Crossroads scenarios look at how people get involved in making decisions in the community, as well as the roles of businesses, religious institutions, civic organizations, non-profit organizations and government/leadership. more
Demographics describe the composition of a population in a statistical manner – looking at factors like age, education, race and income. For the purposes of Crossroads Charlotte, race was an important factor. Statistics predict that by the year 2015, whites will no longer be the majority in Charlotte, but equal with or less in number than the non-white population. The growing racial and ethnic diversity of the community, influx of newcomers, and impact of the baby boom/bust/echo will all play a part in Charlotte's shifting demographics in 2015. more
Economy refers to the prosperity or earnings of a place or community. When formulating the Crossroads scenarios, factors such as job availability and creation, housing costs, the future of banking in Charlotte, and the changes in the middle class were also considered. more
The four Crossroads Charlotte scenarios address the quality of public education, the impact of re-segregating public schools and the availability of educational opportunities. Will students be motivated to stay in school? Will they be prepared to pursue further education or find jobs? Community support for quality, equity and adequate resources will determine where Charlotte's students stand in 2015. more
Growth and development includes issues such as zoning and land use patterns, residential growth patterns, planning decisions, quality of life from an environmental standpoint, transportation patterns and methods, development along transportation corridors, availability and quality of open space all play a part in what kind of community we will have in 2015. more
Resource allocation refers to the ways people obtain the things that they need to live a fulfilling life. In a successful community, residents have equitable access to education, housing, health care, convenient transportation, cultural facilities, community gathering spaces and other life necessities. more
