One of the best parts of BCL is that we are invited to see behind the scenes, to peek behind the curtain. To use a more mechanical metaphor, we get the chance to look under the hood, to see what it takes to keep a city running. 

When the hood first opens, we might expect to see a shiny engine…but it’s always kind of a mess in there. Some of the parts are fresh and new; others are well past warranty. Some parts are impressive. Other parts are redundant. Some parts are missing. It’s confusing, but it’s always worth taking a look.

Early on in the semester, we paid a visit to UVM Special Collections. Archival materials never cease to remind us that we exist on a timeline, and that history is happening now. They also remind us that people have always made decisions–and what feels like fate is a collection of choices. Special Collections librarian and historical interpreter, Prudence Doherty, curated a unique set of materials for us. We were specifically interested in Burlingtonians at the margins, and how they have been treated over time. Small groups of students examined artifacts that told the story of neighborhoods that no longer exist; others investigated how the city’s support system for those in need has shifted over time. 

Transitioning back into the present, we focused on two city systems: transportation and energy. These two areas are directly connected to both quality of life and the future sustainability of our city. As a part of our study of our streets and sidewalks, BCL11 students took part in a “mobility challenge.” They also engaged with local officials as the city broke ground on the Main Street Great Streets initiative. We then descended into the Intervale, to learn about the past, present, and future of the city’s energy system. 

Not surprisingly, many questions emerged. Connections materialized. Perspectives shifted.

Seeing the systems behind Burlington is very interesting and it brings up a lot of questions. When going through it the city as I usually do, I don’t ask myself these questions. But going through and purposefully looking for these systems and how they work fascinates me.

– Ahmed

I have lived in Burlington for most of my life.  Most of the time when I walk I walk for a purpose, like going somewhere or walking my dog.  I have never actually observed the sidewalks that I was walking on.  Being able-bodied, I never have to worry about curbs or broken sidewalks.  At the very most I would simply have to walk on the grass for a couple of seconds to avoid the ice or puddle. Going on a walk with Peggy allowed me to observe the true conditions of Burlington. I saw broken sidewalks with patches of ice, poor pedestrian crossings, no benches, and absent street lights…I can’t imagine how intimidating it can be trying to navigate jagged sidewalks all while being aware of all your surroundings.  This made me wonder if the city was better and more inviting for walkers and bus-users, would there be less need for cars?

– Rory

I can now see just how difficult it may be for those who are disabled, pregnant and/or have children with them as they walk on sidewalks and get on vehicles for transportation.

– Kylee

Our time at the McNeil Plant changed my perspective because now I know that Burlington is a fully renewable energy powered city and that’s really cool to think about.

– Tobey

Learning about these things was very interesting. I never thought about it before.

– Riley

I’ve always wondered what the tall building with the blinking red light was. It was nice to finally go down that hill to the Intervale and see what was down there. It was okay seeing behind the scenes, it just made me think of more questions I had. It changed my perspective about the trees a lot.

– Bahja

I think our tour gave me more hope for our city, that our power is being produced by wood and not releasing fossil fuels.

– Caleb

I feel like people (me) think they know how different systems work but it’s completely different from what I expected.

– Ifrah

Before BCL, I didn’t really know Burlington’s energy situation, but now I know that Burlington was the first city in the U.S. that ran on all electricity from renewable sources. I think that Burlington will figure out a way to reach the Net 0 goal, even though it is a slow process because only a small percent of the city can afford an electric car. 

– Helen

The fact that Burlington was the first city in the U.S. to use 100% renewable resources for electricity generation gave me a sense of pride for our city. But further into our tour and research, speculation arose…One thing that I hadn’t known was that 60% of Burlingtonians are renters. How does the city implement EV charging stations in homes when most people aren’t even permanent in their homes? And how does the city encourage energy efficient homes in the old buildings of Burlington when the landlords are only concerned with collecting rent money and the fact that they can put the burden of utilities on the renters? 

– Layla

I was excited to learn about Burlington’s energy and I think they are on a good path and their work will better the future. 

– Fataiya

Seeing “behind the scenes” has felt good because now I can see what transportation in cars is doing to the city,  with pollution. There’s a connection to our activity with Shelburne Farms too. When we looked at sustainability with Emily [from Shelburne Farms], it was clear that we really need a healthy planet so I think carpooling and stuff like that would help a lot.

– Khamis