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Tall Buildings: Understanding the Real Issues
Sarasota's skyline is undoubtedly changing with new condo towers pushing towards the clouds, but urbanist Brent Toderian argues that height is not the fundamental issue. During a recent visit, Toderian asserted that focusing just on how many floors a building has is an oversimplification of the challenges facing urban developers and the community.
Design Over Height: What's More Important?
"The conversation around building height often misses the bigger picture," Toderian noted. He believes that the design of buildings plays a crucial role in determining their impact on the streetscape. Taller buildings can be designed in a slimmer shape, which can create a less oppressive urban environment compared to shorter, bulkier designs that create a 'wall' feel. He emphasized that the design's key aspect should be how well it interacts with pedestrians, particularly at ground level, where a lively retail and social environment fosters a community feel.
Community Needs vs. Developer Goals
Toderian brought to light an important disconnect in Sarasota—while developers flock to build luxury units, the actual housing needs of the local population are often overlooked. He criticized the trend of new developments focusing solely on catering to wealthy residents, thereby exacerbating the city’s housing affordability crisis. "The conversation should not only be about how tall buildings are, but who they're for," he expressed. The community's needs must be the priority, particularly in terms of affordable housing and mixed-use developments that serve both residents and tourists.
Creating Vibrant Urban Spaces
What makes a city’s downtown thrive? According to Toderian, it's all about walkability and mixed-use development. Essential services—groceries, parks, cafes—should be accessible by foot to residents year-round, not just during peak tourist seasons. He lamented that many downtown areas are so tailored to tourists that locals find themselves driving long distances for basic necessities, further fracturing community ties.
Building Trust with the Community
One of the most profound insights from Toderian is the relationship between citizens and city planning. He states that if community members are resistant to new developments, it often stems from a lack of trust in how decisions are made. "If you’re not making deliberate choices about how and where you grow, someone else will make them for you—usually developers, often with short-term incentives," he cautions. The responsibility lies with city planners and officials to engage citizens in the planning process to build that trust.
Concluding Thoughts: Looking Ahead
The insights from Brent Toderian provide a fascinating lens through which to view Sarasota’s ongoing urban development saga. The focus should shift from mere building height to a more comprehensive understanding of community needs, trust, and sustainable urban planning. As the city grapples with the challenges of growth and development, it’s essential for all stakeholders to come together to forge a path that balances aesthetics, community needs, and economic viability.
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