Urban Planet is a daily roundup of blogs from around the world dealing specifically with urban environments. We’ll be on the lookout for websites outside the country that approach themes related to urban experiences and issues.
Highways can carve up and scar urban neighbourhoods, which is why many North American cities are looking for ways to cover this infrastructure and restore community. The Chicago Tribune explores the experience of Columbus, Ohio which saw increased pedestrian traffic and business for local stores following the installation of the “Cap at Union Station”. But with a $10 million+ price tag, is the cap a viable option for other centres?
Image from PlasticsSafety
For more stories from around the planet, check out Spacing on Facebook and Twitter. Do you have an Urban Planet worthy article you’d like to share? Send the link to urbanplanet@spacing.ca
One comment
When the Papago (I-10) freeway was built next to downtown Phoenix, part of the highway was capped to help mend the scars to the surrounding neighbourhoods.
Known formerly as Margaret T Hance Park (after a former mayor), or colloquially as Deck Park, the space has never reached it’s potential for a variety of reasons; most notably a lack of connections to the surrounding neighbourhoods. As such, it is a favourite hangout for the homeless and skateboarders.
The City of Phoenix has recognized the problems with the park and is undergoing a re-visioning exercise to renovate the park in time for it’s 25th anniversary.