If there's any question how well an old park can serve a
neighborhood, look no further than the Cannon HIll neighborhood. The
park, just off 18th and Lincoln Street, is tucked away surrounded by
some of the finest historic homes in Spokane (just ask the developers of the gated Elkridge Heights -caution annoying music). While the park is an amazing design and amenity, so too are the tree-lined streets that stretch into the adjoining areas.
Driving around on Sunday we came across a neighborhood gathering
that
again proved the power of a well-designed street. As a boulevard, 21st
avenue stretches from Manito Park to the East and High Drive to the
West. All along this street is a wonderful canopy of trees and a
grassy median. Last night the neighbors from surrounding homes were
out enjoying the great summer weather that we enjoy this time of year.
Kids playing in the street (gasp!), food and drink covered the tables
set up in the median, and people standing around talking, being
neighbors. This is a street and it is more than a place for cars. In planning and urban design circles this is known as a great street. In other words, investing in the public right of way,
caring for it, so that it may provide benefits for all users.
No one doubts that the investment here over 100 years ago has reaped benefits for the property owners, the children, and the City. Why should we question the importance of great streets today?
Spokane at it's finest. Walla Walla and Seattle have wonderful neighborhoods, but none finer than this gem with the pond as its centerpiece!
Posted by: Jim | September 10, 2007 at 08:30 PM