Tom Madden: "Uptown is unique for many reasons too - one important reason the character of the area - partially dependant on building height."
Thatcher Imboden: I think a lot more of the character of Uptown has to do with its pedestrian-orientation, its mix of uses, its high level of activity, and buildings orientated to the sidewalk than height. While I agree that height does play into character, a lot of people seem to get caught up on height and ignore the ...perhaps...more significant issues listed above. Tom Madden: "Height aside, the traffic too will grow beyond capacity which will drive more traffic through the local neighborhoods." Thatcher Imboden: Much of Uptown's traffic is generated by sources outside of Uptown's boundaries. While it probably is wise that we don't approve very high traffic-demand projects (of which nothing in Uptown I think is at that level), we should really ask ourselves if it is fair to say 'no' to intensity in our area simply because we have people cutting through Uptown on their way elsewhere. Again, it is Minneapolis holding itself hostage to cars and not creating a model environment for a mixed use community that transit can thrive even more. The Lagoon Project is another step in the evolution of Uptown. I question those who say that we need to preserve the character of Uptown because the character of Uptown, from my view, has only become more and more degraded since the mid-1900s when many of the traditional buildings were replaced by auto-oriented businesses and streets (Lagoon Avenue east of Hennepin), and more intensive uses (West High, Minneapolis Arena, Calhoun School) were wiped out. -Thatcher Imboden CARAG REMINDERS: 1. Be civil! Please read the NEW RULES at http://www.e-democracy.org/rules. If you think a member is in violation, contact the list manager at [EMAIL PROTECTED] before continuing it on the list. 2. Don't feed the troll! Ignore obvious flame-bait. For state and national discussions see: http://e-democracy.org/discuss.html For external forums, see: http://e-democracy.org/mninteract ________________________________ Minneapolis Issues Forum - A Civil City-focused Civic Discussion - Mn E-Democracy Post messages to: mailto:[email protected] Subscribe, Un-subscribe, etc. at: http://e-democracy.org/mpls
