Artificial Grass Works

Despite concerns, the public has embraced a large "grassy" area made from plastic in a revitalized Silver Spring downtown area in Maryland. People decide what makes a successful public space. The risky decision of a government official turns out to be a winner as people vote with their feet.

"It's hard to admit that this fake grass might be kind of okay, because the world has enough fake things in it. Synthetic turf is the epitome of the ersatz and the tacky...But visit this inorganic field of dreams on a recent afternoon and look around. Barefoot lovers are stretched out kissing. Frisbees and footballs are flying. Mexican takeout is steaming on picnic blankets..."

Thanks to Joel S. Hirschhorn