Al Casciato criticized the urban planning decisions made in the 1970s that neglected to integrate housing and retail into the BART station project at 16th and Mission. He emphasized the importance of having 'eyes on the street' for safety and community vigilance, as advocated by Jane Jacobs. Although La Fénix public housing has residents who could contribute to street activity, the immediate area suffers from problems like drug use and unregulated vending, which undermines the community's vibrancy and safety. The building’s design contrasts with the negative street conditions that overshadow it.
Al Casciato highlighted that the absence of housing and retail during the BART station's planning in the 1970s at 16th and Mission region is a significant urban planning failure, which contributes to the lack of "eyes on the street." This concept emphasizes the necessity of having observers, or 'natural proprietors,' that enhance safety and activity in public spaces, as originally articulated by Jane Jacobs in her seminal work on urban planning.
Sophia Thibodeaux described the unfortunate reality facing the residents outside La Fénix, where open drug use and unregulated vending dominate the scene, overshadowing the value of the public housing development. She remarked upon the loiterers, indicating a likely frustration and desire for the public area to function as it should – a safe and accessible sidewalk, rather than a makeshift marketplace.
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