Theory Class: A Vision

During our intensive in Boston, discussion covered everything from how people shop to what makes a job worth doing. Architecture is a profession full of challenges, ever-changing and ever-present. An architect should consider her purposes and motivations frequently or risk becoming overwhelmed with the details. Our week culminated in a statement of vision by each student for the future of our larger community. Over the next few weeks we are to think about how this affects each layer of our lives. I have posted my statement below followed by comments from my affinity group.

Columbus, like many other cities has experienced suburbanization and the addition of the by-pass freeway. But the need has been and remains under study how to provide an alternative to the car or the very long bus ride into the city. On a broader scale, the connection of Columbus to the other urban areas via rail remains a favorite topic of discussion.

With the possible addition/alteration to our transportation systems could come the possibility to change the ways many people experience the city. Future rail stations could provide the chance to explore interaction/addition of spaces that are public, enjoyable, and well-used. The placement strategically along with the architectural shape and siting of the structures will determine how the public interacts with them. It may be helpful to establish a set of guidelines for these places.

Affinity Group Comments:

Look at possible connection that Columbus may have in common with Rancho Cucamonga in California. Located about 50 miles of L.A., this city has grown leaps and bounds over the last 10-12 years. The city originally was small, quiet and rural. With a demand for housing outside of L.A. the city had growing pains. There was, along with other improved infrastructure, a rail line set in place. The “metro-Link” utilizes existing railroads and re-uses older abandoned stations. This concept allowed for better people circulation in and out of LA and kicked off revitalization in the city. Metro-Link not only provided transportation, it helped jump-start the city to status of “Yesteryear.”

Look at Western bus systems along with rail. The advent of the “Hop-Skip-Jump” system in Boulder, Colorado was very successful. One problem with Columbus is the commuter mentality. Does mass transportation need to be cuter or pretty? It needs to be easy and accessible. Eliminate? Longer routes in lieu of shorter faster localized routes that might connect with express routes or rail spurs. Don’t forget that a lot of Columbus’ business now resides in the suburbs vs. downtown, e.g. Chase at Polaris.