So I've been going for runs along Lake Geneva (or Lac Leman en français), and have realized a few things. First of all, it's gorgeous here. I don't think you can beat this place on a sunny, clear day, with the lake, the mountains, Mt Blanc, the jet d'eau... anyway.
But more importantly, as my run takes me by parks, down pathways, and through the botanic gardens, I notice how well public space is used here in Geneva.
But more importantly, as my run takes me by parks, down pathways, and through the botanic gardens, I notice how well public space is used here in Geneva.
The botanic gardens, in particular, remind me a bit of being in other great parks around the world, like Rome's Villa Borghese Gardens or Mexico City's Chapultepec Park. (The Geneva gardens though, have the random but awesome distinction of being home to peacocks and flamingoes.)
In the green spaces I see families out with their kids, people strolling along the water, running, biking, having picnics. Even as the weather has gotten chillier, on sunnier days this is still the case. It speaks to me of how important public space is for communities. I imagine a certain urban planning graduate student I know might have more to say on the subject.
Check out some gorge pics of Geneva along the lake!
I must say I am so impressed with your awareness of the issue. Was that a test?
ReplyDeleteThis is something that the US truly lacks however I do think DC has a better track record of utilizing the spaces available.
Active public spaces are so important for a healthy urban fabric and democratic society. Part of the problem stems from the rise of the suburban, single family home development model which places the emphasis on private space and automobile travel. A common public space and the casual interaction between social strata that comes from that has no place in that model. This only serves to further segregate our society.
I would also say that America's Puritanical laws restricting alcohol consumption in public spaces don't help either. How much more likely would you be to picnic if you could have a bottle of wine?
I heart you. I also heart wine and am absolutley spend more time in public when I can drink it there. Merci bien pour les commentaires!
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