Public-space projects worthy concept

The Arizona Republic
May 21, 2009 4:38 PM

Southeast Valley cities could learn a few things from the Project for Public Spaces about creating a more urban, pedestrian-friendly city.

Tempe was ahead of the curve when it hired the Project for Public Spaces in 2006 to create an open-space plan for downtown.

Mill Avenue was growing like gangbusters, with densely populated mixed-use projects proposed for nearly every major plot in the district. It was in store for a major facelift, one that could change the very nature of downtown.

City leaders wanted to ensure that pedestrian connections were maximized between buildings and that Mill Avenue would continue to be a place where people clamored to spend their time.

The draft plan, released in late 2007, was nothing short of groundbreaking.

It may have been created for downtown Tempe, but its ideas about creating functional, welcoming public spaces are applicable to any city that wants to create a distinctive sense of place — the hip, urban, culturally diverse atmosphere that is crucial to attracting high-wage companies and their employees to town.

But construction ground to a halt in downtown Tempe and these great ideas, sadly, did nothing but collect dust on a shelf.

No more.

City leaders are reviving the plan, saying it's even more important during this down time to plan for and invest in public-space projects.

They're right, and other cities should consider following in their footsteps.

If some of these building blocks are in place once the economy recovers, Southeast Valley cities would become even more attractive places to live, work and shop, and invest once the economy recovers.

Tempe is working on demonstration projects that could be completed while the economy is slow, including additional benches, pedestrian paths and vendor kiosks on blank-walled buildings. Other cities could do the same.

Yes, there is the question of funding. Are these projects that can be accomplished with private help? Or should they be added to taxpayer-funded capital-improvement plans?

Tough questions, given the economy.

Still, it's good to see some movement on this concept. Public-space planning is a forward-thinking idea whose time has certainly come.
 

Making memorable spaces

• Creating fun, functional public spaces is a challenge. Some recommendations:
• Strategically place shade. Offer it along sidewalks and outside shops. Pay extra attention to an area's south and west sides, which take the brunt of summer heat.
• Use water and grass wisely. Both can attract people, but only if they are accessible and interactive. Never use water features or grass as a drive-by ornament.
• Build “sticky” buildings. You know, ones that grab your attention, that don't let you slip by. Vary the architecture. Use lots of windows and doors in commercial areas. No long, blank walls.
• Offer flexible seating. Comfortable, moveable chairs allow people to form groups of varying sizes, sit by themselves or follow the shade throughout the day.
• Create activity. Allow food and drink vendors. Find musicians to play. Host special events. Offer public art or games, such as chess and checkers.
• Remember creature comforts. Visitors need public restrooms, drinking fountains and trash cans.

Read more about the plan at tempe.gov/comdev/urbanopenspace.htm.