Performance Space
From "A Walkable Downtown - Lower Broadway Improvements"
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As long as there is power, this could be a great performance space for local talent. A possible model to follow is "Starlight Square" in Cambridge, MA (photo below), where a parking lot about this size was converted into a venue with chairs, tables, and a simple wooden stage. Performances could range from a poetry/music open mic series to local school dance showcases.
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Profile of Joanne Philbrick
Posted by:Joanne Philbrick
4 years ago
In order for this to be a viable venture one must first address the issue of panhandlers, dirty streets and the ever present citizen sitting on the curb. This will NOT attract locals and visitors.
Profile of Brendon Albertson
Posted by:Brendon Albertson
4 years ago
@Joanne Philbrick Thanks for mentioning this Joanne. It's sort of a "chicken or the egg" argument though - vacant streets attract marginalized people such as homeless, which in turn dissuade visitors and consumers who will put money into the local economy. But those folks don't want to come if the place is seen as dangerous, deserted, and with nothing to do. However, it's a tried-and-true formula that adding public outdoor events and beautification to an area can transform it. I've witnessed this firsthand with Starlight Square in Cambridge, MA, several parts of Boston, and Seattle, and even Osaka, Japan. This first step is to make this lower Broadway area look nicer and have more things to do - the rest will follow.
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Posted by
Profile of Brendon AlbertsonBrendon Albertson on October 11, 2022
Current status
proposed
Tags
Public spaces and buildings
Education and youth
Culture, sports and events