Collaboration in College Towns: How University and Community Leaders Work Together to Solve Local Livability Issues

This dissertation explores the collaborative efforts between higher education institutions and their local communities to address livability issues through policymaking, focusing on large public universities in urban settings. Using a multi-site case study design guided by the Advocacy Coalition Framework, the study examines the the policymaking collaborations in two case study sites: The Fort and Olympia. Key findings reveal the significant influence of state politics on local collaborations, the economic contributions and housing challenges posed by growing student populations, and the importance of formalized partnerships such as community liaisons and advisory boards. Despite these efforts, a lack of clear decision-makers often results in reactive policymaking. This research underscores the need for strong, formalized relationships between university and local governments leaders to effectively navigate the complexities of town and gown livability issues, offering practical insights for university and community leaders engaged in leading these collaborations.