We Like Big Thinkers, Culture Shapers, Place Makers and Risk Takers - A LOT
What do Jane Jacobs, Lauren Kyle-McDavid and David Hawreluk have in common?
From the naked eye, not much.
But when you ask the question, what are each of them doing for downtown Edmonton right now—we spot a lot more common ground.
The term city builder gets tossed around a fair bit these days, but we don’t like this term much. It’s been hijacked by politicians and government officials who only have other people’s money to play with. And they tend to be risk adverse, which generally leads to “boring”.
We lean on the legendary Ms. Jacobs here to remind us what matters more when it comes to actually city building. This theory might land like a lead balloon in a government town, but the agitation is required none the less.
Jacobs championed the idea that cities thrive when they have vibrant, mixed-use spaces that attract people and create a sense of place. Lauren Kyle McDavid’s efforts with Bar Trove in the historic Canada Permanent Building and David Hawreluk’s revitalization of the Union Bank Inn would align well with Jacobs’ vision of urban vitality.
Jacobs might commend them for some things we like a lot:
Adaptive reuse of historic spaces
Instead of demolishing old buildings, they are breathing new life into an existing structure, preserving its character while making it relevant to contemporary urban life.
Encouraging foot traffic and social interaction
A well-designed bar or restaurant in the downtown core can act as a "third place" (neither home nor work), fostering spontaneous interactions, diversity, and community ties.
Adding economic diversity
By introducing new hospitality businesses, they contribute to a diversified and decadent local economy, another Jacobs principle for a resilient city.
Drawing beauty from within
Edmonton is getting older and beneath today’s challenges and fretfulness, it is getting better. By rediscovering and re-enlivening the beauty hidden beneath neglect, they are creating two billowing sails, catching the winds of Edmonton’s next great breath. They tell us it’s ok to be ambitious, to celebrate beauty and to lead from the grassroots.
Jacobs argues that while politicians can set the stage, it’s people like these two—entrepreneurs, professionals, and engaged urbanists—who truly create the character of a city.
So in this year, an election year, we should remember this.
