Friday photo 12/14/12

This week I'm actually sharing two photos, of the same place. Jamison Square is one of the new public spaces created as part of the Pearl District redevelopment in Portland, OR. On this sunny weekday a few years ago, people are reveling in the splash fountain and the square in general.

Conceived in the 1990's, the Pearl is one of the great redevelopment stories in recent decades. It's extension of the simple grid of downtown  Portland, along with ample and well-located public space are two of the key ingredients. While the Pearl did so many things well, including the first modern streetcar in America and a great mixture of uses and buildings, the provision and design of quality public space will be the most enduring and important aspect.

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