Is Granville Island Better Than the East Village?
By Richard Eriksson on November 27, 2004 - 11:29pm
I've never been to the East Village in New York City, but now I guess I have something to compare it to: the November issue of the Project for Public Spaces' Making Places has ranked the 20 best neighbourhoods in North America, and given the top prize to Granville Island:
Originally shaped for industrial use in 1913, the buildings on Granville Island deteriorated until a planning process for the island's redevelopment was initiated 60 years later. Many vestiges of the past were retained, such as tin and stucco siding, industrial-style doorways, cranes, and rail tracks, and the result was an inviting public space with a plethora of uses and activities. Artistic uses include an art institute, a theater, galleries, and studios; for children there's a free waterpark, playground, and kids market with toys, clothing, and books; and in the way of food, Granville offers a superb a public market and a series of restaurants. Floating homes and boat rentals complete the picture. In short, one can pass the entire day here and leave some places unexplored.Great Public Spaces: Granville Island
