Posts from — January 2010

Here’s a thoughtful book review written by Newton resident Jim O’Connell, who served on the team that created Newton’s Comprehensive Plan.  Even if you don’t get Leinberger’s book, which sounds like it’s worth a read, the review itself has a lot to say about the direction development ought to take in Newton.  I urge you to read this.

Review of Christopher B. Leinberger, The Option of Urbanism: Investing in a New American Dream (Washington, DC: Island Press, 2007); $25.95. [Read more →]

This past Friday, Newton Villages brought together of a group of of people from different city departments and community organizations to discuss the creation of a city-wide initiative involving Newton’s artists, bicyclists, and others who are interested in working together to bring art and bike racks into our village centers.

We identified some fundamental requirements and concerns about bike racks:

• Sizing and locating racks according to user needs,
• Choosing styles of racks that may allow artistic expression without undermining their utility,
• Using materials that would minimize maintenance and repair needs,
• Being mindful of other public space needs, especially snow-removal,
• Addressing zoning regulations for placement on public vs. private property, and
• Creating signage that directs people to bicycle racks and (pending a zoning change) credits sponsors. [Read more →]