I am not thinking this is so bad. Like you I am a major proponent of infill. However, here is why I am open minded on this: proximity to CNN and the new student support facility (across from Isotopes Park). If they have efficient shuttles this may not be such a big deal. The truth is some (not all) students wouldn't mind being off campus. I would not turn this into an athletic dorm (which I highly doubt they would) but perhaps limit to no more than 25 percent student athletes. Perhaps it would be a choice for juniors and seniors who may want the proximity to the facilities. Finally, that area is total blight. I think about it everytime I travel to and from the airport and to and from games. That doesn't reflect well on the city or the University. Can't think a recruit would be impressed by that.
I hear you. Check out the renderings, though. It's a sea of short buildings surrounded by a giant parking lot. At least provide something up near the street or with obviously ped/bike connections to the street where mixed-use "MIGHT" occur. It's the location PLUS the design that have me concerned. In my critique of the south campus plan, I still think this housing would be much better where the eastern parking lot exists along Yale. This would make Yale a convenient connection for everyone. Then they can pave this lot and hold tailgating there and preserve views of the Pit from I-25. I dunno, I just think this was a worst case scenario out of everything they COULD have done.
Good point on the design. The story seemed to indicate this is almost a done deal. If so, I do hope they adapt per your suggestion. BTW, just checked out the Andaluz and it is pretty cool. Great lobby for hanging and drinking. Cool little lounge areas with water feature. Rooftop deck will be equally cool (set to open in spring). First floor restaurant will open October 28.
4 comments:
I am not thinking this is so bad. Like you I am a major proponent of infill. However, here is why I am open minded on this: proximity to CNN and the new student support facility (across from Isotopes Park). If they have efficient shuttles this may not be such a big deal. The truth is some (not all) students wouldn't mind being off campus. I would not turn this into an athletic dorm (which I highly doubt they would) but perhaps limit to no more than 25 percent student athletes. Perhaps it would be a choice for juniors and seniors who may want the proximity to the facilities. Finally, that area is total blight. I think about it everytime I travel to and from the airport and to and from games. That doesn't reflect well on the city or the University. Can't think a recruit would be impressed by that.
I hear you. Check out the renderings, though. It's a sea of short buildings surrounded by a giant parking lot. At least provide something up near the street or with obviously ped/bike connections to the street where mixed-use "MIGHT" occur. It's the location PLUS the design that have me concerned. In my critique of the south campus plan, I still think this housing would be much better where the eastern parking lot exists along Yale. This would make Yale a convenient connection for everyone. Then they can pave this lot and hold tailgating there and preserve views of the Pit from I-25. I dunno, I just think this was a worst case scenario out of everything they COULD have done.
Good point on the design. The story seemed to indicate this is almost a done deal. If so, I do hope they adapt per your suggestion. BTW, just checked out the Andaluz and it is pretty cool. Great lobby for hanging and drinking. Cool little lounge areas with water feature. Rooftop deck will be equally cool (set to open in spring). First floor restaurant will open October 28.
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