"Civic spaces are an extension of the community. When they work well, they serve as a stage for our public lives. If they function in their true civic role, they can be the settings where celebrations are held, where social and economic exchanges take place, where friends run into each other, and where cultures mix. They are the “front porches” of our public institutions – post offices, courthouses, federal office buildings – where we can interact with each other and with government. When cities and neighborhoods have thriving civic spaces, residents have a strong sense of community; conversely, when such spaces are lacking, people may feel less connected to each other. Great civic spaces are really great public places. They are recognized and valued in their cities and towns as places with their own special flavor that relate to and nurture the larger community and bring the public together.The rewards of transforming a civic space into a great public place go way beyond just the space, although the place in itself enriches the lives of its users and enhances its surrounding buildings and neighborhood. Great public places contribute to community health – whether socially, economically, culturally or environmentally. They add enhancement to the civic realm – not only visually, but also in providing a sense of character and a forum for public activities. They can be anchors for downtowns and communities, acting as focal points for definition and foundations for healthy growth". - Project for Public Spaces
In 1967 discussions began for the new construction of a new public library to replace the Carnegie Library that had served the Niagara Falls community for over 70 years. During the 1960s, numerous proposals were tossed around discussing where the new library should be located; locations downtown and Main Street led the ballot. According to the Niagara Falls Comprehensive Plan of 1966 – 1986, a location proximate to City Hall would be extremely more convenient for library visitors and would not add to downtown congestion during peak tourism season. Several sites near the current city hall location were mentioned but concerns arose over the land acquisition costs associated with such a premier location. There were even suggestions that a new City Hall be built as part of a larger civic center. In 1967, Peter Dicamillo proposed that a new City Hall be erected north of Pine Ave, east of Main St, and west of 7th Ave; the old City Hall building could be used as a library. Obviously, no such proposal was ever acted on and the Earl W. Brydges library designed by architect Paul Rudolph opened on March 9, 1974 at 1425 Main Street; a considerable distance from the proposed civic center adjacent to City Hall.
Queen Victoria Pa |
Rendering of Niagara Experience Center |
Visit Project for Public Spaces to learn more about the economic, social, and cultural benefits of great civic centers as great public spaces!
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