The Public Art of City Building

The acceptance by the courts of urban aesthetics as a legitimate area of governmental concern has not been matched with broad and vigorous public action in urban design. New philosophies of public aesthetics and more courageous design, decisions, and development are needed to deal with the peculiar problems and political attitudes of the great American city. For the broadest common good and maximum design achievement, aesthetic aims must be put to work with normal planning and development actions. The recent growth toward a public urbanism industry, in which planning and development are closely linked, gives promise of a versatile, specific connection between aesthetic wishes and their fulfill ment. The role of local government in "capital design" of public land, streets, and community facilities offers enormous opportunity and obligation.