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February 27, 2008
The Eagle Pimps Out (Makes Better) City Projects
Brooklyn Daily Eagle reporter Sarah Ryley comes up with a new-n-improved Atlantic Yards project:
Bored by the debate between advocates of superblocks and Jane Jacobian traditionalists, who prefer the old-school street grids, the delay in the Atlantic Yards project would be used as an opportunity to marry the two concepts. Pacific Street between Carlton and Vanderbilt avenues would still be demapped, but the seven high-rises would be adjusted back to the traditional street grid lined with storefronts on both sides, the glittering glass towers creating a monumental archway leading into a park. Cobblestone streets off-limits to cars, dotted by fountain-side seating, would bisect the massive block, creating an effect similar to what Union Square would look like if its bordering streets were turned to promenades. Restaurants would be nestled into the curves of the buildings to accommodate outdoor seating, and retailers would be a mix of national and local boutiques. Landscaping for the park would be a mixture of hardtop to accommodate Saturday farmer’s markets and basketball games, and grassy lawns. A giant glass cube would float 20 feet high in the center, accessible by elevator, containing Mac’s newest flagship store.
Developer Forest City Ratner would make a fortune off retail rents (judging by the success of other promenade shopping districts), urbanists would finally have the car-free streets they’ve only dreamed of, and Brooklyn would have the coolest Mac store in the world.
Posted by lumi at February 27, 2008 6:12 AM