USM learning in the Corner!

Hello, my name is Sophia Ibarguen, and I am this year's summer intern for Friends of Woodfords Corner. I am heading into my senior year as an economics major at the University of Southern Maine, and I have had the pleasure of working with FWC through USM's CEIP program for over a month now.

Over the last few weeks, I have been reading a book by Jeff Speck called “Walkable City”, and applying what I have read to what I have learned and experienced so far as an intern. If you would like to check the book out, Back Cove Books would be happy to order it for you! As most know, FWC works to improve and maintain the walkability of the corner, and Speck’s book has helped me to comprehend that goal further. As I’ve been walking around the corner, postering, talking with business staff, and working events, I have thought about how easy it has been to walk from one place to another, but also how scary it can be to cross on the main roads. Speck highlights that in order for walking to be favored over driving, it has to be useful, safe, comfortable, and interesting. When it comes to walkability in Woodfords Corner, the FWC Active Transportation Team is dedicated to helping pedestrians feel both comfortable and safe when walking, especially when crossing the street. In previous years, FWC has persistently advocated to the city and Maine DOT for what are called “flashing beacons” to be installed in crosswalks throughout Portland, which give an alert to oncoming traffic. In my experience, whether it's downtown or Woodfords Corner, crossing the street can be very stressful. With flashing beacons that stop traffic, you don't have to use your own body as the crossing warning, which I can attest to. While this is just one example, a simple addition such as these flashing beacons has increased the number of pedestrians we see walking the corner and shopping locally, by making them feel safe and comfortable enough to do so. 

During this internship, I am learning to integrate economic theory with on-the-ground community work. This book has helped me understand the history of Woodfords Corner and how FWC’s goals move towards a thriving and sustainable village hub. I am having so much fun as FWC’s summer intern, and I am excited to see what I learn by the end of the summer!