start with a big vision, take small steps

By now, everyone knows about the transformation of public spaces in New York City. Times Square is the example that comes to mind most immediately but there are other adaptations in all the boroughs. This enlightening and amusing TED Talk given by Janette Sadik-Khan, New York's Transportation Commissioner, shows the value of having a big vision that you achieve through incremental steps. Enjoy "New York's streets? Not so mean any more" and think about taking small steps here in Bermuda.janette sadik-khan

urban improvements: quick and easy

image: maryleigh burnettIn an evening of PechaKucha Bermuda presentations not long ago, MaryLeigh Burnett had a MAD (Make A Difference) idea: convert our bus shelters into artists' pallets, harness the energy of students and artists and invigorate the bus waiting experience. 

This is a splendid idea and, in those locations where there is scope to do more, we should. The jargon term is "tactical urbanism" and it involves a distinct element of 'do first and ask later'. As it happens, though, I believe the Department of Transportation would not necessarily be adverse to an artistic takeover of bus shelters. After all, a number of schools have done so already.

Need inspiration? Check out some of the suggestions of Ellen Dunham-Jones and W Jude LeBlanc in How to Adopt Your Neighbourhood Bus Stop written for the website GOOD. image: maryleigh burnett

How 'bout it Bermuda?

to gamble or not...?

There is much debate in Bermuda regarding the arrival of casino gambling. Lest we spend too much time arguing the point, please understand: Bermudians gamble already. The question is: how should we deal with casino gambling? 

where will we see the first casino? image: bermuda aerial media

For those who do wish to argue, you must know we can access betting on horses, greyhounds and sports competitions; play bingo and buy raffle tickets; and, for two days a year, (legally) play crown and anchor. Let's assume that for the other 363 days a year, the card games are behind closed doors. But this is really about visitors.

As we consider the possibilities, we should pay attention to Atlantic City, New Jersey. The comparisons aren't direct but, as a gambling destination since 1978 now battling fierce competition in what many term a 'mature market', it seems sensible to review its situation.

Lisa Selin Davis, writing for Planning, the magazine of the American Planning Association, has done just that. In an article entitled Plan B for Atlantic City, she examines the steps Atlantic City is taking to re-invent itself. Efforts to make casinos part of the urban fabric are striking as they speak to the need, in Bermuda, to help visitors have a 'whole island experience'. The Bermuda National Tourism Master Plan provides a framework for us to make that happen.