Ville-luminate the Block

• New Media

• Spatial Planning

The Ville-luminate the Block project seeks to transform the distressed Belmont Avenue in Brownsville, Brooklyn, into a thriving business and cultural district that is welcoming and accessible to pedestrians and the community. The creative, technological solution aims to enhance the experience and use of public space at night, increase nighttime activity, increase perceptions of public safety, and reinforce the positive momentum of changemakers and creatives in the community to animate Belmont into a hub for cultural activity.

NYCx CoLabs, New York City’s office of technology, sponsored the Ville-luminate the Block project - a partnership between the Brownsville Partnership, Brownsville Community Justice Center, and Peoples Culture. Working with the Justice Center’s youth-led Brownsville Tech Lab to develop content, adapt new technologies, and develop custom code, a 3D projection mapping system responsive to sensor-monitored pedestrian activity was installed over Osborn Street Plaza. The project serves as an adaptable and accessible platform responsive to the corridor’s needs — showcasing community created art and projects.