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Originally Posted by tech12
I have to agree with you. I thought those funicular things were somewhat cheesy and gimmicky (a tribute to the cable cars I'm guessing?), and looked like they would be less efficient than simple stairs and escalators. The fact that you need to go through the building to get to the roof shouldn't be much of a problem, though having access from the outside too would be better. What's the worst case scenario? The park is slightly less crowded on average? I'm pretty sure it will be a popular place regardless for nearby office workers, residents, people waiting for trains/buses, tourists, etc.
edit: On second thought, it would be kind of confusing for many tourists I think...but my point is I think the park will still see plenty of use.
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I'm not concerned if the funicular is included or not, but I think not creating direct access to the park from that plaza (be it stairs, ramps, funicular or whatever) is a missed opportunity -- a pretty serious one at that. That should be the grand entrance to the park, IMO. However, we have to remember that there will be a street-level access point on the far corner (by 2nd and Howard) so not everyone will have to go through the center itself or the tower. Unless of course that part of the plan has been changed as well.
I'll admit, I'm warming up to the design a little after seeing those two detailed views that 1977 posted. It should be an attractive and high quality building, and I can be happy with that even if I prefer what might have been. Someone on Socketsite brought up the idea of adding an observation deck. I wish they would consider that, and a restaurant too. They could add a couple more floors and keep the same overall height, then the crown wouldn't seem like such an artificial attempt to make the building appear taller (that's a pet peeve of mine).