New York City is one of the most dense urban areas in the Unites States having set the standard for mixed use, multi-family/multi-unit development, and the accompanying traffic and pedestrians. Each of the areas in my four-week study has changed over time to address traffic and pedestrians needs, incorporating residential concerns and commercial viability with structural resources. Some areas have balanced the public vs. private better than others, resulting in appealing and improved spaces with a strong sense of place. A crucial element that reflects this balance is the inclusion of public/open space in development plans that encourages a range of diverse uses.
Columbus Circle, Atlantic Yards, Times Square, and the High Line all include public/open spaces, either privately-owned such as commercial plazas, city-owned such as parks and intersections, or a combination of private/public such as DOT/BID-encouraged pop-up cafes, intersection improvements, and traffic-calming.
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This brief essay would make a great intro to an entire research project based on just one of the transition catalysts you mention... traffic and pedestrians needs, incorporating residential concerns and commercial viability with structural resources...
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