One, I would like to commend you on Part I of your Reston piece. Lucid and interesting. In fact, I look forward to reading Part II. Any idea, when it's coming?
Two, I would like to share with you a question that's been on my mind for some time now and, perhaps, you can help me with it. Namely, what has been the effect of zoning; i.e., setting apart different areas for different uses, on the long-term viability of the American town/city?
There is no question but that our land-use and zoning regulations have done a great deal of harm to the social cohesion of America. Initially, zoning regulations were used to separate factory sites from residential neighborhoods; to remove the pig sty from the neighbor's yard. Now they are increasingly being used to separate Americans by socio-econmic class if not by race. Where we saw "the malling of America" in the 60s, 70's, and 80's, we are now seeing "the walling of America". After having withdrawn from the cities, more and more upper-middle-income Americans are retreating to exclusive residential communities protected by zoning regulations that prohibit social co-mingling. In a very real sense, more and more Americans are seceeding from the Union and its social compact. If that trend continues, it will spell the end of the America to which I came back in 1951. In its place we may than get the type of society that prevailed in England during the latter half of the 19th Century but without the rather constraining influence of Victorianism. Not a happy propect that! Look at the bright side however. Our zoning and land-use practices over the past 40 years have produced a whole lot of happy cars!
Keep in touch and let me know what you think of Part II.
Your PERSPECTIVES are very enjoyable and informative, and yours is a welcome addition to this Web site.
We've lived in Reston for nearly 20 years and are glad to live in this convenient, yet semi-sylvan, setting. The view out my computer- room window is one of budding trees and a hazy moon right now.
But I continue to be perplexed, amused, and troubled by Reston Town Center. While I understand the genesis and development of Robert Simon's dream, I am baffled at this monolithic outcropping of pseudo- Manhattan megaloffices, a 2-3 block spread which abruptly ends at a parking lot. I am remotely reminded of Universal Studios city backlots, which at least reflect the honest evolution and awkward architectural growing pains which most urban environments actually experience.
Suddenly, miraculously, these towering monuments sprang up in a virgin wooded lot with the god of commerce himself, Mercury, perpetually spewing water as onlookers grab a cup of cappuccino. Hints and glints of gold are everywhere and I can't wipe that smirk off my face. I am Dorothy; this is Oz. Where is Toto?
The shops are so painfully trendy they're almost empty, even during the Christmas season: Rodeo Drive East (sigh).
What does it all mean?
Keep writing...I'll keep reading!
