Jay Walljasper argues that the need for accessible, vibrant public space grows along with the bad times.
"The last economic crisis of this magnitude-the Great Depression of the 1930s-led to a new appreciation for public places. The recovery programs of Franklin Roosevelt's New Deal built or restored parks, trails and recreational facilities all over the country. The American public is still reaping the benefits of these farsighted accomplishments.
It makes perfect sense to do this again on an even larger scale, with federal, state, municipal, philanthropic and community investment in creating wonderful places in every town where people can rub shoulders with one another and enjoy themselves. After decades where peoples' lives have become more privatized, this would spark a welcome transformation of American life."
FULL STORY: In Hard Times, Public Places are More Important Than Ever
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