Abandoned lots and litter-strewn pathways; or rows of green beans and pockets of wildflowers? Graffiti-marked walls and desolate bus stops; or shady refuges and comfortable seating? What transforms a dingy; inhospitable area into a dynamic gathering place? How do individuals take back their neighborhood?Neighborhoods decline when the people who live there lose their connection and no longer feel part of their community. Recapturing that sense of belonging and pride of place can be as simple as planting a civic garden or placing some benches in a park. The Great Neighborhood Book explains how most struggling communities can be revived; not by vast infusions of cash; not by government; but by the people who live there. The author addresses such challenges as traffic control; crime; comfort and safety; and developing economic vitality. Using a technique called ldquo;placemakingrdquo;mdash;the process of transforming public spacemdash;this exciting guide offers inspiring real-life examples that show the magic that happens when individuals take small steps and motivate others to make change.This book will motivate not only neighborhood activists and concerned citizens but also urban planners; developers; and policymakers. Jay Walljasper is a senior fellow of Project for Public Spaces (PPS); whose mission is to create and sustain enriching public places that build communities. He is a former editor of The Utne Reader and currently executive editor of Ode magazine. Inspired by European cities; The Great Neighborhood Book highlights practical solutions for the revitalization of North American cities.
#789952 in eBooks 1997-11-01 1997-11-01File Name: B0094ONWGC
Review
2 of 2 people found the following review helpful. Great Gift For The ElderlyBy Patty ThomasI bought this book for my elderly aunt who was born in Jersey City. NJ. She loves this book. She was struck by the picture on the cover as she recognized it as the place she and her sister ran into Frank Sinatra who asked them to watch his baby (Nancy) for a few minutes while he ran upstairs in that apartment building for a few minutes. He gave them each $10.00 (a lot of money back then!). Whether or not that is REALLY the spot where that event happened that day...who knows. It sparked a memory for her and thats all that counts. There are pictures of the Jersey City Medical Center (where her father and brother worked). pictures of movie theaters she visited. etc. She is really enjoying her memories.So. this is a great gift for elderly folks. I believe this type of book is done for many cities in the US. so perhaps you can find a city for one of your elderly relatives. Theyll really enjoy it!1 of 1 people found the following review helpful. Five StarsBy REWonderful photos and engaging commentary make this a wonderful purchase.1 of 1 people found the following review helpful. Five StarsBy joy romeoGreat