(this is in reply to a question Matt posted in another thread).

Regarding the personal fab project, it's been on a back burner because of other more pressing projects and limited space. However, there are some small steps that we're taking. Shawn Wallace at AS220 is setting up a computer/electronics lab at the Empire Street building that could become the hub that this kind of thing grows out of. The lab will be used for youth programs, public workshops, and public access during certain times. Shawn and I are kicking around the idea of including a laser cutter in this lab, but that's a big $$$ item, so maybe not. On the other hand, it could pay for itself.

On the 3d printer front, things were moving a bit slowly in terms of the available technology, but that's gotten much better recently. Desktop Factory is close to releasing their relatively inexpensive printer, Reprap is getting easier and less expensive to build, and Fab@Home remains a pricey, but viable possibility in this space. And a key driver for me is that I'm editing a book called Personal Fabrication, and the author of that book is working on a variation on the Reprap that we may be able to use. And a recent Make weekend project featured Reprap. So this is all coming within reach.

Also, AS220's Bert Crenca is participating in the upcoming RI-Nexus event on next-generation working environments and fab labs, so that event should catalyze some action.