The problem our project focuses on is the increasing number of potholes in our community and the lack of awareness about how they affect everyday life. Potholes can damage vehicles, create unsafe driving conditions, and lead to expensive repairs for residents. Many people do not know how to report potholes or who to contact, which causes delays in getting them fixed. This project was created to raise awareness and provide the community with a simple way to take action.
To address this issue, I used multiple types of technology to collect, organize, and share data. I used ArcGIS, a mapping system, to help conduct surveys and better understand where potholes are located. I created a survey using Google Forms to gather information from the community. The data collected was then organized and stored in Google Sheets, which allowed me to track and manage all responses in one place. Finally, I used Google Sites to design and publish a website that shares information about potholes, explains their impact, and shows people how to report them.
This project reflects the EAST Initiative—Education Accelerated by Service and Technology—by combining service to the community with the use of technology to solve a real-world problem. It is student-driven because I took responsibility for researching the issue, creating the survey, and building the website. It is service-based because the goal is to help the community stay safe and informed.
This project also connects to CART (Critical Thinking, Application, Research, and Technology). Critical thinking was used to understand the seriousness of potholes and how they impact the community. Research was used to gather information and collect data through surveys. Application was shown by creating a real solution through a website and organizing the collected data for public use. Technology was used throughout the entire project, including ArcGIS for mapping, Google Forms for surveys, Google Sheets for data organization, and Google Sites for building the website.
What makes this project unique is that it not only raises awareness but also provides a solution. Instead of just explaining the problem, it gives people the tools and information they need to report potholes and understand their impact. The use of real data and mapping technology makes the project more interactive and meaningful.
My community partner for this project is the local city leadership, including the mayor’s office. They provided insight into how pothole issues are handled and the challenges the city faces. Their involvement helped guide the project and ensured the information shared is accurate. The mayor serves as the main point of contact and has been included in communication and outreach.
The Pothole Awareness Project has been in development for several months. During this time, I researched the issue, created surveys, collected and organized data, and built the website. The project is completed. The website is fully published and shared with the community, along with promotional materials such as posters.
This project has also been promoted through outreach and will continue to be shared on social media to increase awareness. Hashtags related to community improvement and road safety will be used to reach a wider audience.
Overall, this project shows how service and technology can work together to solve real-world problems. By raising awareness and providing solutions, the Pothole Awareness Project aims to make roads safer and help the community become more informed and involved.