Quote:
Originally Posted by k1052
It won't, the land is much too valuable as redevelopment. Particularly so as vacant river north plots become scarcer.
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Yes, I wonder if the City missed its chance if it felt public land should be set aside around River North. I was hoping for land to be set aside in RN, West Loop and South Loop as I believe there is a need for public spaces / squares in and around the CBD. South Loop may be a logical gathering place in the future if the expansion of an "entertainment" area pans out.
But I wonder what folks are expecting in the way of a "Times Square." That isn't something that can be created out of whole cloth - at least not very easily. TS has a history and reason for why it exists (e.g, we have all seen the images of people gathering to watch the news or celebrate Japan's surrender during WWII). It is a natural crossroad, centrally located on subway lines. It is also not just about flashing lights; it is about a place to gather, people-watch, soak up atmosphere, see late-night talk show segments filmed, and feel like someone has reached the "center" of the city. Millennium Park is an example of a successful square (and created from nothing). It has become a place for people-watching and providing the sense that someone has reached an important and central location. Navy Pier, on the other hand, is an example of a location that - as designed - has not felt like a place to gather and soak up atmosphere. And it will probably always feel "remote."
I am all for more gathering areas as I believe they are needed now (eg., MP is already seems to be cluttered with semi-permanent tents for family/kids events that have taken over the promenades and there really is no ideal gathering spot for celebrations like New Years) and that they will be needed even more over time as the core area grows. But they won't be successful if plopped just anywhere, and placing bright lights won't make an area into a destination (and it may be a bit of chicken/egg - first comes the people, then comes the bright lights).