In class on Tuesday we learned about the three definitions of a public space; an open space, a space of public debate and an accessible space. But what are the benefits of a public space? Well simply look at any major college campus and you'll see their quad or drillfield is a home to many different activities. From people who walk tight ropes to sorority girls who are pushing their homecoming queen nominee on you, the quad/drillfield is a public space home to many college activities. But there's more to it than that. According to this site there are ten benefits of creating a public space.
One of the biggest and most obvious benefits of public space is that it helps the local economies flourish. I know for a fact that in my home town we have our farmer's market in our town square, the most central part of the city, and because of this, we have more people who are able to go. Not only that but our local paper is handed out there. And during the winter, we cover part of the square with ice and open up a small ice skating rink where anyone can skate for a small price. This is just in my small home town, I can't imagine how much a public space could flourish in New York City.
Another advantage is that public space reduces crime. New York City's Bryant Park is a huge testament to that. In the early 80's the park was a crime cesspool but after several changes the park now attracts 10,000 citizens in the summer and hosts a film festival. Now public spaces are not only a great place to spend your free time but they also have a much larger functional purpose in society.
Also public spaces have been found to improve the environment. People take much better care of the local environment when it is out in the open and accessible to everyone. It also provides a place for people to go out and play and get exercise. So not only do public spaces look nice, they have much larger purposes in society.
Ameen Mustafa
Public space really does provide convenience to busy people. I agree that drillfield does a very good job of providing connections among students. Students can easily reach for new information on their way to class and access relaxation with friends while they are free.
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Beyond convenience, public spaces draw people for multiple reasons - people watching, strolls, exercise, - a sense of community is definitely the main draw. In my hometown, the city chose to reclaim the waterfront and today it is a center for various activities. One of the biggest draws are the activities related to the pre-Derby festivities -- Thunder Over Louisville (touted as the largest fireworks display), the Chow Wagon (a fried food wonderland), the Derby Festival events (Zoombathon, free concerts, Derby Brunch on the River, etc) - most event are free with the small purchase of a Pegasus Pin ($5.00). Beyond Derby, the waterfront is a year round park with various charitable walks/runs throughout the year, running paths, picnic area with playground, benches, chicken sculptures. The public space identifies the community and supports the community.
ReplyDeletePublic space can be key to a community flourishing and bringing people together. Public space allows ideas to be transferred, and also provides opportunities for business. But who says public space needs to be available for only serious reasons? It most definitely provides an environment for leisure and fun. Both are needed by everyone.
ReplyDeletePublic space, such as the drillfield is a great thing, as long as it doesn't become overwhelming. It can be very exhausting when there are too many "advertisements" throwing different things at you.
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