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March 28, 2008
A Bright Future for Brooklyn
The NY Times, Letter to the Editor
To the Editor:
Re “What Will be Left of Gehry’s Vision for Brooklyn?,” by Nicolai Ouroussoff (Architecture, Weekend Arts, March 21):
The cancellation of Atlantic Yards would not be a “painful setback for urban planning” but a victory for Brooklyn and for responsible future development. Mr. Ouroussoff’s grand architectural visions for the Manhattanization of Brooklyn leaves out the effects on individuals.
Dozens of residents have been evicted because of Atlantic Yards, and the project would do further harm:
The “Brooklyn Bride” would cast a permanent shadow over the surrounding area.
The Nets Stadium would cause impossible traffic congestion.
Public streets would be closed for what would be a luxury development.
There would only be minimal affordable housing (Bruce Ratner has continually backed off from his initial promise).
A coalition of Brooklyn organizations has come up with a Unity Plan, to provide for the improvement of Brooklyn homes and services. The possibility finally looks brighter for that.
Reva Cooper
Brooklyn, March 21, 2008
Posted by lumi at March 28, 2008 6:21 AM