I am always interested in out-of-the-box thinking and new ways to look at old problems, so I was excited to attend the "Better Block" urban design exhibit In the F.A.T. Arts District in Fort Lauderdale, Florida this afternoon. A little explanation of what the "Better Block" project is, from their site:
The “Better Block” project is a demonstration tool that revisions an area to show the potential to create a great walkable, vibrant neighborhood center. The project acts as a living charrette so that communities can actively engage in the “complete streets” buildout process and develop pop-up businesses to show the potential for revitalized economic activity in an area. Better Blocks are now being performed throughout the country, and have helped cities rapidly implement infrastructure and policy changes.Cool pop-up stores, galleries, food trucks and more were installed into the block today (like Radio-Active Records, Public Image Vintage, Samsara Folk Art) in partnership with with city and the FAU School of Urban & Regional Planning) showing in such a vibrant way how smart design and commerce can collaborate to bring life back to neglected parts of our cities. Do check out "Better Block" and attend an installation if you can. Participating in these kinds of events helps to show investors and city planners that people care about where they live! Here's some photos from the day.
© Copyright 2008- Marianne Spellman