Hip to be (Linden) Square
Urban planning is the development of comprehensive designs for the use of space within cities, towns, and developments. “It focuses on the physical form, economic functions, and social impacts of the urban environment and on the location of different activities within it” (Fainstein). It aims to develop open land and revitalize existing parts of a city. For this Action Project, we were instructed to focus on renewing and revitalizing a small, urban area - in my case, the Village of Wilmette’s Linden Square. I chose this area because, not only is it just down the street from where I live, it is the location of the Linden CTA Purple Line, which I ride frequently. Using what I have learned about greenscapes, pedestrian needs, public transportation, traffic, parking, commercial and residential buildings, and amenities, I improved the existing area for both residents and commuters, alike. I attempted to create a safer, more comfortable, and inviting space, while capitalizing on the proxim