Source: Flickr
Image: Community Spaces
Recently a friend shared wonderful stories about his old neighborhood, Campbell Park, in Chicago. When he was a child growing up in the 1950's all the houses in his neighborhood used to face a shared park in the center. He treasures those fond memories of the park and how it drew the community together. Of course it's long gone now, along with that sense of community. How many of us know our neighbors by name and socialize with them? How many of us would feel comfortable turning to a neighbor for help these days or more importantly, offering a helping hand? Each of us possesses the power within our hearts to revive this tradition of genuine community.
Source: Flickr
Image: Andy Wasley
A key component to the RIBA Green City Model is the central community area, which is 800 feet by 480 feet, approximately 8.8 acres. It can be used for athletic fields, play spaces, storage, a skate park, orchards, picnic space, walking paths, concerts, , art fairs, gardening and green infrastructure, like bioswales and permeable pavement to improve water quality. A source of renewable energy would also be right at home in this space for the entire community. A windmill or combined heat and power system would be ideal.
Source: Flickr
Image: Ms. Phoenix
However, the primary purpose of the community area is to provide an open space for socializing and a safe space in which children can play. Often there is too little shared open space provided in newer developments, which can contribute to feelings of isolation, particularly for elderly residents. A community space reminiscent of the village green is an important component in this community-focused design. A small community facility or shelter should be provided, which could be used for children's birthday parties or other celebrations and events.
Source: Flickr
Image:Mydecorative
The community area would:
1. Increase community spirit
2. Preserve time and reduce the use of motor vehicles
3. Concentrate after school activities into one area
4. Enhance volunteerism, creating a multi-generational influence
5. Create a safer environment where everyone knows everyone
Source: Flickr
Image: Alan Stanton
This important space will also contribute to the sustainability of the community by providing additional space for fruit trees or other edible landscaping, as well as some very important sustainable infrastructures including bioswales, rain gardens and permeable surfaces.
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