12:50PM
We are getting wonderful contributions! Most people are pulled in by sheer curiosity. A fellow came by on a striped bike and put his thoughts on the paper chain of ideas—he wanted a park, a suggestion that is quite popular among residents. ‘Parking lot’ has also retained popularity, although I recently overheard a woman say, “I’d rather see them build a few well-placed parking garages than turn a space into a parking lot.” We’ve also heard ‘swimming pool’ quite a few times—perhaps because of the temperature outside today (the perfect day for swimming).
A couple on bikes road by and proposed an orchard to go in the space. Meanwhile, a businessman strode through and chuckled, “A big playground!” Providence is such a playful city—even grown-ups want more swingsets and slides. There are also the very practical-minded few who are thinking about the current economic climate. A woman who’s currently homeless stopped to chat with Annie. She initially said she wanted to see housing for the homeless in this empty space, but then expressed that she wanted something that would generate jobs for people and income for the state. She suggested science labs, schools to train scientists, or small businesses.
As I write, four people sit on the steps outside of Webster Bank and just watch what we’re doing across the street. It’s exciting to be generating so much interest!
