A fixture in many thriving downtown areas are street banners. They can welcome people, market the place, highlight an upcoming event, or set the tone for a season. While some places excel in their banner game, others have lessons to provide. In Lawrenceville, NJ, the banners provide a nice welcome when people visit town. Old Town in Lansing, Michigan, has
The Lackawana Railroad terminal building has been creatively repurposed with a barbeque restaurant and bar. The Montclair Center BID is responsible for revitalization efforts in Montclair. The Montclair Historic Preservation Commission prepared these markers to help people familiarize themselves with historic properties in town. Large scale new development is relatively well integrated with the existing historic building stock. Note the
Increasingly malls are becoming locations for innovation beyond the traditional model of long corridors lined with stores. We were pleased to find public art and a community hub on a recent visit to Bridgewater Commons in Bridgewater, New Jersey. British multi-disciplinary artist Lois O’Hara hand painted this expansive 75-foot art mural. Her vibrant and diverse practice takes in large scale
From the train sheds it is a short walk into the station. Whereas other stations are functional, this one is attractive to bringing people in like kings and queens. Warrington Plaza recognizes the planner who helped to start the NJ Transit system with the Hoboken station as the first property. This bank with Roman Ionic pilasters and parapet with enrichment
During a visit to Dallas we were able to drop in with our friends at Better Block. Between our last visit and this one they upgraded to a larger space. Their methodology has also been refined. Typically a 150 plus day pre-build process helps to define what people want to see happen in places they work. Then during an intensive
Cleveland Plaza is a level of architectural intervention unusual for an older building. The canopy on steel and reinforced concrete armature gives a neat hat atop this structure. I was fortunate to get a peek into St. Michaels church down the block. The stained glass, while narrow and compact, had themes and coloration that made them stand out. Religious statuary
Over the past decade I have attended every in person Main Street Now conference. Through that experience I have developed both expectations and an appreciation for the unique strengths and lessons that each host city has to offer. Birmingham was no exception. In a post spanning two parts I will share about my experience with the leadup to the conference
Recently Terminal A in Newark, NJ, was named the best new terminal in the world. Almost immediately upon arriving it was apparent why. Great thought went into designing an environment worthy of the travel experience. From the way finding, to seating, to public art, and retail mix with many local businesses – comfort of travelers was front of mind. It
An archway welcomes people to the Arts Walk. Large concrete planters help to prevent vehicle access. Alternating color pavement, bistro tables, bright colorful umbrellas, and festoon lights create a vibrant public space. Restaurants and bars open on to the walk further activating it.
We drove from New Jersey for a chance to see one of the three Great American Main Street Award winners for that year. My colleague Hannah Davis joined me to give a tour of Florence to me and my two kids who were travelling with me. Right away we were struck by the presence of large institutions like this one,