Urban Planning Without Controls
Monday, August 23, 2010
In 2005, Boston developers with a Providence partner proposed building the city's tallest structure in the heart of the financial district. In order to realize their superstructure condo tower, they sought and received city permission to tear down one of Providence's distinct and historical building - the Old Colony Bank Building.
Rhode Island's architectural conscience, Mack Woodward calls the decision-makers out. Five years later, the hole in the ground remains, a bizarre rusted scaffolding scars Weybosset Street, and no one takes responsibility for the chaotic decision-making.