RESTORING CITIES FROM THE BOTTOM UP: A BI-COASTAL VIEW FROM THE STREET

This article argues for a middle ground between the historically opposed positions on urban restoration, the environmentalist and the business and development oriented advocates. Each position by itself is flawed. Both the corporate and environmental agendas legitimize a top-down approach to the problems of American cities, when what is needed is a bottom up approach. Cities need to re-establish public domain in the form of Commons -- public places like parks, or even sidewalks and streets, where people can socialize and do business. Cities need to be clean and environmentally sound, and this helps business and development which are so desperately needed, especially in inner-city neighborhoods. Live / work communities (i.e. neighborhoods with commerce and residence) will reduce commuting and integrate all members of society.