Skywalk a controversy in new convention center

What do we think about this, urbanists? Is this really a deal breaker?

“The design should not include ‘skywalk’ connections …, which would limit convention attendee opportunities to interact with and patronize downtown businesses. Skywalks would also undermine the quality of public space in the downtown, in contradiction to city plans and goals.”

@bloomington_in #UrbanPlanning

https://bsquarebulletin.com/2024/09/05/convention-center-expansion-takes-steps-ahead-with-sharp-words-from-2-bloomington-councilmembers/

  • Obbie King@urbanists.social
    link
    fedilink
    arrow-up
    1
    ·
    edit-2
    2 months ago

    @benfulton @bloomington_in I am puzzled by this, but also kinda cynical. Are there vendors within the convention center who don’t want to compete with the surrounding town?

    What’s the problem with conventioneers “interact[ing] with and patroniz[ing] downtown businesses”? I though that was the main reason for cities to get convention centers.

    The only thing that can explain this is in-house protectionism.