Congress Square Park is the perfect example of what most cities are currently trying to incorporate into their urban layout and design. Currently, a major issue for bigger cities is making them more user friendly to the public. It has become increasingly difficult for people to travel to downtown areas and to enjoy many of the benefits the city has to offer.
some of the issues big cities currently face.
Designed for cars
No multipurpose space for public
Lack of green space
Designed for efficiency/function not people
History of Congress Square Park:
During the 1980’s and 90’s Congress Square Park was a central part of Portland’s art district. Overall, there was nothing unique of special about the place itself. What made this public space so successful were the people and memories that were made there. During its height, there were multiple events, gatherings, and activities that drew people from around town to join in the commotion.
However, in the early 2000’s as the events began to slow down, so did the publics attention and care for the space. In return, the decline of this public space negatively effected the local businesses and drastically reduced social happiness around the area.
What Makes This Space So Special:
No amount of money, research, or development can replace the core values that are behind the social health and well being of the public. Fundamentally, there are only a few key factors that are truly needed to create a welcoming environment for the public to enjoy.
Multipurpose space for events and activities
User friendly and easy to walk or get around
Some green elements
Unique features that give space a sense of humanity
Congress Square Park
A8: Project Study
Vancouver: Robson Square
One of Vancouver’s most successful public spaces is Robson Square. Located in the center of downtown Vancouver, Robson Square is the perfect location for a recreational area for the public to go to. Overall, what makes this space so successful isn’t its unique design, but instead its incorporation of some key fundamental principals for public recreation.
Similar to Congress Square Park, Robson Square focuses more on what the public wants than the aesthetics of the space. While something may look and seem nice in photos, the way it functions and how it is used by the public is what truly matters. Here are a few of the activities that Robson Square offers.
Thai Chi Classes
Assortments of live music
Food trucks and food festivals
Assortments of festivals
Cultural celebrations
Much more
Another aspect that makes Robson Square so successful is that it uses its location to its advantage. During the day it is a prime target for many city workers to go to for lunch or after work. During the night it is also a prime location for general public to go and enjoy the night light or downtown Vancouver. It should be noted that what also makes this space so successful is that there are many other public areas within the downtown area, and that the city has done an excellent job at making downtown Vancouver a walkable and easily accessible space for people.
