![]() ![]() In Columbus, Ohio, an urban mall whose better days were long in the past (much like Midtown Plaza here) was leveled and the land it occupied transformed into Columbus Commons, a six-acre green space. Yet other cities have shown how well-designed public space can stimulate growth in the surrounding area. To have value, the property needs taxable development. Foremost, city officials apparently believe a public square or park at Parcel 5 would be a waste of precious downtown space. No, I say it because I think City Hall sees the Parcel 5 opportunity through a very narrow lens-one shaped by misconceptions. On the contrary, I’m all for a world-class open space in downtown Rochester, and Parcel 5 by far is the best location for it. I say this not because I think a public square or park at Parcel 5 is a bad idea. But a thoughtfully designed urban square or park? No. Yes, the former Midtown Plaza site could remain in its current state-gravel and dirt, bordered by a handful of skinny trees-for quite some time, as the city tries to figure out what to do next. There is something, however, I’d be willing to place a wager on: Parcel 5 will not become Rochester’s signature downtown open space.ĭespite the considerable support this idea has attracted, it’s almost certainly not going to happen. In a matter of weeks, Parcel 5 could be back at square one. Personally, I would not bet even a tiny fraction of $25 million-the amount Paychex founder Tom Golisano has pledged for the entertainment center-on what the outcome will be. ![]() An arts and entertainment center coupled with a residential tower has been proposed for the former Midtown Plaza site.
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