We would like to thank you for participating in our survey that we conducted a few months ago. The survey was for the purpose of seeing how strong a sense of community exists on Barnes . This newsletter highlights what eight of you had to say about living on Barnes Avenue.

• 63% said people on this block are not isolated from each other.

• 63% said people on this block socialize with each other.

• 63% said that people on this block trust one another.

• 63% said people on this block feel they belong on Barnes.

• 63% said there is a feeling of community spirit among neighbors.

• 75% said people on this block know each other.

• 75% said people on this block like each other.

In addition to having some connection with each other, residents reported a feeling of safety on Barnes. Eighty-eight percent (88%) of you said that Barnes is a safe place to live, and 100% of you said that Barnes is safe to walk on, even at night.

• People on the block watch out for each other (63% agree).

• People can persuade the city to respond to your needs (63% agree).

• Residents on Barnes get things done together to improve the block (75% agree).

• Residents on Barnes participate in community improvement activities such as community clean-ups (75% agree).

• Residents are committed to the block’s future (88% agree).

• Residents on Barnes can reduce the amount of crime on the block (88% agree).

• Residents participate in the curbside recycling program (100% agree!!).

Although there was a lot of positive feedback from you, some areas of concern or needed improvements were also mentioned. Less than half of you said that people give rides to each other if needed; that they participate in social activities; that they take care of each others’ pets, plants, and kids; and that they comfort each other in times of need. However, this lack of interaction does not mean that there is a lack of interest for improvement. In fact, 63% of you said that you would be interested in assuming a leadership role on Barnes. 
 

There were some issues of concern that came up when asked the question, "What is the major problem facing this block?" Some of you mentioned that traffic is too fast on Barnes. Also, drugs came up as a problem or potential problem for residents.
 
 

Overall, there appears to be a good sense of community on Barnes. This is especially the case when it comes to safety; community participation in clean-ups or recycling; and a feeling of commitment to the block and to each other for future improvement. All of you (100%) told us that you either like or love living on your block.
 
 

Once again, we appreciate the time you took to do the survey and to let us know a little about yourselves. If you have any questions, please contact John Schweitzer at 353-9144, Michigan State University.