Two years ago, RECORD published an award-winning feature devoted to the evolution of New York City in the decade since 9/11. We gave much of the credit for the city's newfound vibrancy to Mayor Michael Bloomberg, under whose administration exemplary urban design and architecture have flourished. The vast enhancement of the public realm—hundreds of acres of new parks, especially on the waterfronts; miles of bike lanes; pedestrian plazas; handsome new civic and cultural buildings—have created a dynamic and alluring urban environment for residents and tourists, while helping support the economic vitality needed for maintaining New York as a global capital.
Now Bloomberg is leaving office after 12 years, and his legacy is coming under sharp scrutiny. Some people complain the city is too cleaned up—they miss the gritty authenticity that used to taint Times Square or the Meatpacking District near Chelsea, where the hyper-popular High Line snakes, and where soaring real estate values have driven out wholesale butchers in favor of art galleries and chic restaurants. The industrial neighborhood of Williamsburg in Brooklyn, once home to cheap lofts and scruffy saloons, has been transformed by condo towers, though the quality of construction doesn't always match the high price tags for apartments.
You have 0 complimentary articles remaining.
Unlimited access + premium benefits for as low as $1.99/month.