For a first impression, look at a city’s streets

The article below is the first in a monthly column on urban design and planning in the Indianapolis Business Journal by RATIO Urban Designer and Associate Principal Tom Gallagher. While focused on examples specific to Indianapolis, many of the points Tom makes can be applied universally. 

Follow Tom's column both here and at IBJ.com. 

-

Cities are full of hidden mysteries, scores of decisions monumental and minute, that give them their form. Said another way, we build our values; so, we all have a part to play in the tale. It is my hope through this monthly column to bring to light our city’s story and examine what works, what doesn’t and how we, ultimately, advance Indianapolis’ vitality. As a fitting beginning, I’ll start with a discussion of elements that are veiled because they are so ubiquitous—our city streets.

Streets are a city’s first ambassadors. Most in downtown Indianapolis, however, don’t live up to our standards of hospitality. You’ve likely felt something is awry as you travel downtown but haven’t put a finger on exactly what it is.

For any urban place, streets are one of the most challenging aspects to get right. No doubt, the trouble starts because these workhorses of the urban landscape are significantly misunderstood...

Click here to read the full article on IBJ.com.