OpenPlans

OpenPlans is a social enterprise developing open source technology solutions that make cities run better. Based in New York City, OpenPlans is a non-profit with a team of 60 software engineers, designers, urban planners, analysts, educators, and journalists.

The Civic Works group within OpenPlans is focused on aspirational citizen engagement with urban planning. We develop open source software tools, we catalyze and support communities of interest, we help city governments engage online, and we build capacity and new connections between different groups. We work in partnership with cities and community groups.

"One of the great things about Community Boards, is that they are grassroots democracy, people can participate in government. The Community Board is the only place where the average citizen can go and be heard. The Community Board amplifies citizen’s concerns." -- Bob Gormley, District Manager at Manhattan Community Board 2.

"Community Boards need to be transparent, put information out there. [Community Boards] Need to find a way to self empower...to show their relevance." -- Fernando Tirado, District Manager at Bronx Community Board 7. .

"The Community Board can be the voice for the community, but it needs support from residents... people are getting more involved because the Community Board is giving them the opportunity to voice their opinion." -- Beryl Nyack, Assistant District Manager at Brooklyn Community Board 3. .

"Community Boards are an old fashioned crowd sourcing body. The larger discussion is, what are the tools for the Community Board of the future?...tools directed at the crowd would be more effective than Community Board specific tools. Crowd sourcing tools will make it easier to mobilize on aspiration." -- Christine Berthet, transportation committee co-chair at Manhattan Community Board 4. .

CB Tools Beta

Public participation tools for NYC's Community Boards

OpenPlans