That's what it's all about
As we continue to ponder our own City’s destiny (please consider attending the imminent round of public workshops regarding transportation, green systems, community revitalization, and economic development as part of the new City Comprehensive Plan), it’s always instructive to recall what’s compelling in other cities–in this case, San Francisco and the Bay Area, which was a holiday trip this year. Above is a shot taken in San Francisco’s Mission District: density is a fundamental aspect of this city, enabling walk-ability,interesting streetscapes, and healthy public life.
Only NYC is denser
A good mix of mid-rise and high-rise buildings define the downtown area, above.
Consuming the city
Above is the main shopping area downtown near Union Square, which manages to feel authentic–even a bit gritty–despite the very expensive chain stores. It was great to see huge crowds out on the sidewalks.
...and more shopping
It’s important to remember that San Francisco has one of the higher per capita incomes in the US, and is considered one of the world’s top tourist destinations. Hence the preponderance of luxury stores downtown, from Neiman Marcus to Diesel, above.
Unique
Chinatown, above, is unique in this country as a large, tight-knit ethnic community with a very old history. The projecting signage, fruit stands, and shoppers make for a superb walking environment.
How can you beat it
In the Russian Hill neighborhood, we stumbled upon the original Swensen’s ice cream parlor, a quaint corner shop with a lunch counter. This neighborhood is filled with corner coffee shops and dry cleaners.
Good edge
Across the water in Berkeley, the university campus is edged with vibrant streets lined with retail and restaurants, above. It’s a great urban amenity for staff and students alike.
Is it real?
Over at the edge of Oakland, the Bay Street Mall is an urban mall with all the right elements of good urban planning–lots of shops lining sidewalks, housing above, parking hidden away in garages, bike racks, etc. (above). Yes, it all feels mall-ish and homogenous. But if you do new construction malls, this is a really good effort.
Keeping fares low
Back in San Fran, the subway system, like many others across the world, is getting creative with selling ad rights. Above is the Union Square stop, which a bit jarringly feels like the “Banana Republic” stop when you leave the train. But it helps keep fares low. And with such a relatively comprehensive transit system, I guess we can’t complain too much about corporate branding like this.
Inspired by a great trip, it’s good to be back in Birmingham, ready to work to improve the city.
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