Archive for July, 2006

Evidently I’m a little late to the party as I’ve only recently become aware of the concept of design patterns. Notice this started as concept for architecture the computer science community later embraced. Now, if I could only pursue architecture and computer science simultaneously…

My hometown is doing away with individual parking meters in favor of centralized ones. The system they’re using is a bit different from the one they’re using here in Arlington and Gerogetown. Instead of dispensing parking passes, all of the spaces are numbered and you pay for your specific space at the machine. They’re also going to add a prepaid smartchip system.

Assuming that these systems will become more prevalent throughout the country, I would like to see one that will also sell you a bus ticket. The one of the biggest problems I’ve noticed with MetroBus is the fact we’re usually waiting for someone to dig out five quarters for their bus fare while the light turns red. Not all communities can shell out for a system like SmarTrip, so machines like this could be configured to close the gap.

Coming to a curb near you: rubber sidewalks. The District is testing them out on a couple of blocks. The advantages are durability and more graceful fitting with tree trunks. Disadvantages are the initial cost and the inability to hold chalk. All made of recycled rubber. I know of several small towns that could use something like this.

I moved to Arlington about a year ago and rent a room of a house in Cherrydale. I thoroughly enjoy living in this community and am proud to call Arlington my home. When friends of mine visit from out of town, I always take them to Clarendon nearby and they’re amazed by the abundant sidewalks and the accompanying walkability. Over the past year, I’ve noticed numerous articles referencing Arlington as a “poster child” for suburbs wanting to transition themselves into a network of highly walkable urban villages. This is no doubt a testament to the hard work that has been put into planning for the infrastructure that makes this happen.

I’ve recently learned that although my neighbors have been diligently working to have sidewalks, curbs, and a gutter added to North 18th Street, funding for this project is in jeopardy. Considering our growing reputation as a model that other cities look to, this is ridiculous. It is irresponsible for us to budget for a $110 million dollar park while ignoring neighborhoods desperately in need of bare necessities such as sidewalks.

Sidewalks are the “first step” in getting people to use car alternatives. If someone walks out of their front door and is presented with only a driveway, they are likely to drive everywhere. Those who decide to brave the street are forced to walk directly in the lane of traffic as cars are usually parked along the street edge. I know this to be true as I frequently have to do it to get to my room on Quebec Street. Fortunately, most of the drivers on my street are locals who drive safely, but this is never guaranteed.

Please reconsider the decision to halt Neighborhood Conservation Projects and instead commit to fund this essential improvement. Our reputation and safety are on the line.