About Us:

The Institute is one of the non-partisan applied research and community outreach centers of the university. Founded in 1969, the Institute provides a wide-range of services, including technical assistance and training related to operations and data management, public opinion surveys, land-use and natural resources consulting, economic development research and community planning to meet the needs of the region and its citizens.

Mission Statement and Core Values:

Our Mission: To seek solutions to the social, economic and environmental challenges facing our communities.

Quick Facts:

History:

The Urban Institute of UNC Charlotte can point to many accomplishments over the years, but several are noteworthy, including:

  • The compilation of the Peirce Report, conducted in partnership with nationally-known writer and planner Neil Peirce. The report offers a region-wide assessment of Charlotte’s future economic, environmental and leadership challenges and is still quoted today by policy makers.
  • The creation of UNC Charlotte’s on-campus survey center, which has become one of the university’s greatest resources for on-campus and community-based research.
  • The institute’s standing as one of the first organizations to talk about regionalism. Over the years, the institute has become an important nexus for discussion of regional issues. The institute provides a wide range of services that include: technical assistance and training; public opinion surveys; land-use and natural resources consulting; economic development research and community planning to meet the needs of the region and its citizens. The institute also: conducts the Charlotte-Mecklenburg annual survey to help assess public attitudes and significant policy issues; supports faculty research and community clients; and partners with local governments and other non-profits on projects to improve the region.

 

University Centers:

The UNC Charlotte Urban Institute is one of three applied research and community outreach units of the University, along with Charlotte Research Institute (www.charlotteresearchinstitute.com) and the Institute for Social Capital (www.socialcapital.uncc.edu).

Established to strengthen and enrich multidisciplinary programs of research, public service, or instruction conducted by the faculty and staff, the institutes also have a strong positive impact on the economic development of the state by providing job opportunities, supplying technical assistance and training, fostering community development, and enhancing the transfer of new technologies. By engaging in partnerships with organizations such as private or corporate sponsors, educational institutions, and federal or state agencies, these institutes serve as an important means to address the diverse mission of the University.

Centers & Divisions:
The work of the UNC Charlotte Urban Institute is organized around four divisions and one center:

Community Research and Services
Economic Research and Analysis
Land Use and Environmental Planning
School Services
Center for Transportation Policy Studies