In the papers gathered here, we aim to showcase experiments in spatial representation beyond place markers and polygons on maps, from demos of new tools and historical reclamations of pre-GIS representation techniques, to theoretical engagement with the ontology of mapping and representation itself.
Topic
Research, Publications, and Reports
What Do People Think of E-bikes? A Closer Look by Younes and Xie
Sixty-four percent (64%) of respondents from a recent survey on e-bike use and perception agreed that the government should do more to support e-bike use. Researchers conducted this survey (N=998) in Fall 2025 to adult, non-users of e-bikes in the U.S. Over 70% of the respondents were from NJ, with a smaller percentage from surrounding states, and 443 were non-owners.
New NJSDS Report: Noncredit Education in New Jersey
As more adults pursue nondegree pathways for skill development and career advancement, and with the enactment of Workforce Pell in July 2025, which authorizes Pell Grants for training programs as short as 150 hours or eight weeks, the need for clear definitions and reliable data on noncredit education has become increasingly important. Establishing a standardized system will be key to turning these data into actionable information that helps New Jersey maximize the benefits of Workforce Pell.
NJSPL Report: Reducing Opioid Overdose Risk in New Jersey
Researchers found that incidents of NJ Medicaid beneficiaries who received buprenorphine immediately and/or shortly after an opioid-related emergency department visit increased from 4.0% in 2018 to 14.4% in 2022. The team also conducted a series of interviews with medical professionals and discussed the challenges to buprenorphine provision, including patient resistance, insurance and pharmacy obstacles, and limited training and stigmatization.
Kathe Newman elected as Chair of Board, Urban Affairs Association
Her research explores urban change, what it is, why it happens, and what it means and has explored gentrification, foreclosure, urban redevelopment, food security, community economic development and community participation.
Andrews, et.al assess heat and air quality in low-income housing
Standard air quality and heat monitors don’t capture the full picture, especially for vulnerable residents in low-income public housing. This study uses wearable devices and indoor sensors to reveal stark disparities in real-world exposure to extreme heat and PM2.5 pollution across different groups, with seniors and youth facing the highest risks.
Ahmed (PhD ’28), Smart, and Noland Review Carbon Emissions and Remote Work
The authors report findings on carbon emissions associated with driving to the respective campuses and the modes used and perform an analysis of the potential effect of changing the university’s remote work policy for staff. They find, unsurprisingly, that mandating additional days in the office increases commuting emissions.
Kopp and Climate Scholars Assess Atlantic Coast Seasonal Flood Drivers
The authors found that north of Boston, MA, the most extreme flooding occurs in the cool season, while south of Wilmington, NC, the most extreme flooding occurs in the warm season. In the mid‐Atlantic region, both seasons contribute significantly to flood events. At all locations, cool‐season storms drive the more routine extreme sea levels. These findings highlight the importance of studying winter storms to improve coastal flood preparedness.
Public Transit User Experiences and Feelings of Safety among Marginalized Genders
LGBTQ+ respondents are more vulnerable to harassment on public transportation than respondents who identify as cisgender and straight. Policy and planning measures aiming to address safety and harassment on public transit may not be effective for SGMs.
NJ State Financial Aid Outcomes Dashboard Released
The New Jersey Statewide Data System (NJSDS) is pleased to present the first release of the New Jersey State Financial Aid Outcomes Dashboard. This dashboard shows outcomes calculated by linking longitudinal higher education data from the Office of the Secretary of...